PFAs in Drinking Water

Should we be concerned as home inspectors?

September 1, 2023

While tracking state legislation with respect to statutes and rules that could impact our role as home inspectors, we have become aware of more and more legislative proposals with respect to testing for the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in water. While there is currently no enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS, the EPA has issued a Lifetime Drinking Water Health Advisory Level of 70 ppt (parts per trillion) for PFOS (Perfluorooctane sulfonate) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). According to the PFAS Strategic Roadmap, EPA expects to issue proposed MCLs (Maximum Contaminant Levels) for PFOA and PFOS in the fall of 2023.

States like Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, and New Mexico have adopted the EPA guideline, while other states like Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Vermont have enacted laws that require mandatory disclosure of PFAS contamination or testing during a real estate transaction.

Currently, however, we are not aware of any state in the US or province in Canada that places the burden upon a home inspector to test the drinking water in the home for the presence of PFAS. If, as a home inspector, you are also performing water testing, then you should cover the scope of the testing in your contract. You should be aware whether there are particular concerns about your local drinking water supply with respect to PFAS.

The laboratory fees to test for PFAS is currently around the $250 mark, so with your service fee added, it is going to add up to a relatively expensive test.

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This could be an interesting discussion at chapter meetings where you always raise awareness, discuss strategies for bringing awareness to the communities that you serve, get further education, and decide on a service level strategy that brings uniform good quality service delivery from all members of your chapter.

Should you become aware of any pending legislation or rule changes in your state, please send an email 2020ashimrc@gmail.com.

Resources

For those interested in learning more about PFAS in drinking water, visit epa.gov/pfas.

Go HERE for state-by-state legislation.

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