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A recent Harvard University survey of homeowners interested in healthy housing found that indoor concerns topped the list of respondents. In fact, 69% expressed concern about indoor air quality. Other areas of significant concern included water quality, harmful materials or chemicals, safety, comfort, accessibility, safety issues, and indoor light or noise.
This data set, together with its accompanying questions, led us to wonder whether Western North Carolina would mirror the national results. We decided we’d approach our own community and ask for their feedback. Our questions were drawn from the available stock of questions used in the Harvard study. We were in luck: 30 of our friends and neighbors agreed to weigh in about their home healthiness priorities.
So here’s what we learned from our informal study. Yes, in most cases, our small sample mirrored the Harvard results. But some issues in WNC, particularly related to the humidity, remain much more prevalent than in the Harvard results we saw. These issues include mold and mildew, moisture, radon gas, problems in basements and crawl spaces, and the like.
We believe the environment – and distinct microclimates like we experience here in the Appalachians – change the way a home healthiness examiner approaches his craft. Yes, methodologies in the profession may be similar, but the body of knowledge needed in each region is distinct.
The results are what AHH promised to share, and here are our top findings. Let us know if you spot any surprises!
Takeaway #1: Home healthiness concerns are gaining traction in western North Carolina and the southern Appalachians.
More than 66% of AHH respondents have severe or moderate concerns about some aspect of their home negatively impacting their household’s health. Of these, more than 85% were worried about indoor air quality, where about 1 in 4 were concerned about water quality. Harmful materials, pets, and inadequate heating or cooling were also areas of significant concern.
Takeaway #2: Mold or mildew overgrowth was by far and away the most pressing concern in our region.
Mold and mildew are reaching epidemic proportions in the western part of the state. Of respondents, 75% cited this critical healthiness issue. Dampness and moisture issues followed a close second, with nearly 65% of our respondents citing it as a top priority.
Another air quality concern, dust and pet dander concerned nearly 30% of those ranking their concerns.
Takeaway #3: WNC Homeowners take direct action when it comes to home healthiness.
We found 80% of respondents have taken specific steps to remediate their concerns. More than 73% of those had engaged in mold removal about 47% had made the shift to toxin free paints.
What spurred them to take action?
In more than 57% of cases, a household member developed symptoms, one of the key indicators of sick house syndrome. Almost 15% sought help after a household member received a medical diagnosis or upon a medical professional’s advice.
More traditional advice for about 48% came from a building inspector/contractor/other building professional; 20% turned to the internet for information, and fewer than 5% depended on word of mouth from a friend, relative or neighbor.
About 72% said they plan to seek or had recently sought assistance from a home healthiness specialist, like those at A Healthier Home.
Ready to Take Steps Towards a Healthier Home?
We’re here to help. When it’s your health that matters most.
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