Lead Poisoning: Your Health, Your Insurance Coverage

It wasn’t that long ago that the water crisis hit Flint, Michigan, and residents became concerned about the lead content. For years, home and property owners and managers, as well as mortgage companies, have known about the risks of lead.

Recent studies of metal exposure in many parts of the country have raised important questions.

What is lead poisoning?

This form of toxic poisoning can occur when a dangerous level of lead enters the body. By the way, small amounts of lead are also not good for you and can cause serious health problems, especially in children under the age of six.

Where does lead come from?

Lead problems usually originate from lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust. Houses and older buildings are problematic in this regard. Lead can also be found in air, water and soil contaminated. Those working with batteries, renovating apartment or office buildings may also be at risk, as can people who repair cars.

How does one get to this form of poisoning?

All you can take to reduce low levels of lead poisoning is to avoid the points where contains lead. Patients suffering from high levels of lead poisoning may need to undergo a treatment called chelation. Family physicians are the best source of guidance in this area. Of course, avoiding contact with sources of lead is the best antidote in the first place.

How is lead poisoning prevented?

Here are several everyday tips to help residents prevent exposure to lead poisoning.

• After turning on the cold water, let it run for about a minute before using it.

• Wash your hands before eating, at bedtime and after playing outside.

• Disinfect toys regularly.

• Mop all floors on a regular basis. Wipe furniture and surfaces clean with a damp cloth to maintain a dust-free environment

• Train family members to remove shoes before entering

• Plant grass on patches of soil.

• Plant grass on patches of bare dirt outdoors, covering sandboxes after play

• Eat healthy meals three times a day.

• Avoid toys, medicines, cosmetics, and hair dyes that may contain lead.

What about property insurance? Does it cover lead poisoning?

This type of metal poisoning is a controversial topic for most insurance companies, especially when it comes to older homes, buildings, and properties. Generally, home and property owners must hire a special inspector to confirm that lead is not a known problem before a provider will sell related coverage.

More information about lead poisoning in relation to homeowners insurance can be obtained from an independent insurance agency that has experience in all areas of real estate.