Selling Older Properties? Here’s What New York Realtors Need to Know About Environmental Risk

Selling older properties in New York brings unique challenges, especially around hidden environmental hazards. Issues like lead paint, asbestos, underground storage tanks (USTs), and soil contamination can complicate inspections, delay sales, or even threaten closings. For realtors, understanding these risks and partnering with experts like MP Environmental can help keep transactions on track.

Lead Paint: A Common Concern in Older Homes

Lead-based paint was widely used before 1978 and often remains in older properties. Because lead poses serious health risks—especially to children and pregnant women—sellers must disclose its presence. Many buyers request lead testing or remediation before closing, which can slow down the sale process or require price negotiations.

Certified lead inspections and abatement services are critical to managing this risk efficiently. MP Environmental offers fast, accurate lead testing and removal services to help sellers navigate these concerns and reassure buyers.

Asbestos: The Hidden Hazard That Can Delay Sales

Asbestos was a popular building material up until the late 1970s, commonly found in insulation, flooring, and roofing. It’s particularly dangerous when disturbed during renovations or inspections, releasing hazardous fibers into the air.

Because asbestos is often not visible, testing by licensed professionals is essential before any demolition or remodeling. MP Environmental provides expert asbestos inspections and safe removal services that ensure compliance and protect the health of all parties involved, helping keep sales moving forward without unexpected surprises.

Underground Storage Tanks (USTs): Hidden But High Risk

Many older commercial properties may contain underground storage tanks used for heating oil or fuel. Over time, these tanks can leak, contaminating soil and groundwater. Such contamination presents legal liabilities and can result in costly cleanup efforts.

USTs must be disclosed during property transactions. If contamination is suspected, environmental assessments and remediation may be required before closing. MP Environmental specializes in UST inspections, removals, and soil testing to quickly identify and resolve these issues, helping avoid delays.

Soil Contamination: A Silent Sales Killer

Soil contamination from petroleum, heavy metals, or industrial chemicals can stem from previous property uses or accidental spills. This contamination may affect financing approvals and complicate sales.

Early environmental site assessments are key to uncovering potential soil issues before they become dealbreakers. When contamination is found, remediation and proper disposal plans can be developed and negotiated. MP Environmental offers comprehensive soil testing and cleanup services to ensure properties meet environmental standards, allowing sales to proceed smoothly.

How MP Environmental Supports Realtors and Sellers

Environmental risks don’t have to derail your property sale. MP Environmental provides fast, certified testing and remediation tailored for real estate transactions. We help identify hazards early, provide clear documentation for buyers and lenders, and manage remediation projects efficiently to keep your sales timeline on track—all while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Trust Our Experts

Older properties have character and history, but they can also harbor hidden environmental risks that complicate sales. For New York realtors, staying informed and proactive about these issues is essential to avoid costly delays and protect your clients.

Partnering with MP Environmental means having a trusted expert by your side to handle lead, asbestos, USTs, soil contamination, and more, helping you close deals safely and on time.

Contact MP Environmental today to learn how our environmental testing and remediation services can support your real estate transactions.