Many indoor contaminants and hazards become a serious problem when they enter the air and compromise indoor air quality. There is a list of 11 substances identified by the Ontario Government as harmful to humans when they are exposed to these substances, and property owners should be concerned about them. Most of these substances, including asbestos, are not easily identified by the average person or even expected by the typical homeowner because they do not have an identifiable odour or a distinct visual appearance. The best way to address these substances is by booking a designated substance survey with a certified InterNACHI provider like Inch By Inch Inspections. If these hazards are detected on your property, book restoration and asbestos removal in Mississauga with our team of experts who can offer safe and compliant removal, helping you avoid fines and related project delays.
Here are some of the leading reasons property owners miss the common contaminants infiltrating their property, and what you can do to make your space safer.
Most Substances Are Odourless and Invisible
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One of the top reasons these airborne contaminants are overlooked is that many of them cannot be seen or smelled. Unlike mold, which often gives off a notable musty scent, designated substances like asbestos, lead, and mercury may not present any immediate sensory warning signs. This false sense of safety often causes delays in removal or remediation until a health issue arises or renovation work uncovers the lingering risk. A professional designated substance survey is required for construction work because it identifies these materials proactively, before they become a serious hazard, protecting you and your contractors.
Older Properties May Be More At Risk
If your property was built before the 1990s, you may be at higher risk for hidden substances like asbestos or lead-based paint. These materials were once commonly used in insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and wall panels. Without modern updates, they may still be lurking behind the surfaces of your home or business. That’s why the Inch By Inch Inspections team recommends a designated substance survey prior to any demolition, construction, or HVAC work. Identifying the risk early on allows for safe planning and the proper precautions.
Routine Inspections Don’t Catch Everything
A standard home inspection focuses on structural and mechanical systems, but it usually won’t test for airborne contaminants or embedded hazardous materials. Even professionals may miss these risks unless they are specifically trained and certified to conduct environmental testing. That’s why you need a specialized team like Inch By Inch Inspections, which can both detect contaminants and coordinate licensed services for asbestos removal in Mississauga if required.
Health Issues Can Go Unlinked
Respiratory problems, chronic coughing, eye irritation, or even headaches may result from long-term exposure to harmful substances. However, without visible signs of damage, many property owners don’t connect these symptoms to indoor contaminants. A targeted DSS report and professional testing can link these health concerns to a specific source in your building, allowing for timely intervention and asbestos removal in Mississauga before conditions worsen.
Protect Your Property with Inch By Inch Inspections
If you’re planning renovations or noticing unexplained health concerns, it’s time to take the next step. Our team offers certified testing and guidance to ensure your property is safe, clean, and compliant. Schedule a designated substance survey today, and choose Inch By Inch Inspections, a 2025 Consumer’s Choice winner, to help you protect your health and avoid costly mistakes.
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