Benchmark Environmental Engineering would like to remind property owners, commercial industries, property managers, and private homeowners about the importance of environmental testing after a natural disaster such as a flood, earthquake, fire, or mudslide. Natural disasters can leave behind a dangerous mess to clean up and we’re here to help you determine if there are harmful contaminants hidden in the debris.
Natural Disasters Can Cause Hidden Dangers
Floods, wildfires, mudslides, and earthquakes are just a few natural disasters that can wreak havoc on California residents. Floods and landslides can cause a considerable amount of contamination to your soil, groundwater, and even the infrastructure of your home or business. Your property or business could become host to a variety of harmful contaminants depending on the disaster that has occurred.
- Mold & Fungus
- Lead, Heavy Metals, & Industrial Chemicals
- Pesticides
- Sewage & Waste
- Bacteria & Microorganisms
Drinking Water Should Be Tested After A Flood
After a flood, especially if your livelihood depends on the health of your property, it’s recommended by the Environmental Protective Agency (EPA) that if you own land or use well water that it should always be inspected by a certified testing agency after a flood or other disaster that could cause potential contamination. Benchmark Environmental Engineering can assess the possible runoff contaminants that are exiting and entering your farm, garden, lawn, or drinking water source. Pesticides, herbicides, E. Coli, and other pollutants could potentially find their way into your well or your garden and can make crops toxic to humans and livestock.
Water Damage Can Cause Toxic Mold
Water damage from a flood can also cause major damage to the inside and outside of your home. If left undisturbed, areas, where moisture becomes trapped, can become the perfect breeding ground for dangerous mold, fungus, bacteria, and other microorganisms. Allowing these areas to sit for long periods of time without proper inspection can not only damage your property value as it destroys and degrades your home, but it can also cause serious illness and other medical conditions that could be avoided.
Wildfires Leave Behind Hazardous Materials
After a wildfire, there are many dangerous contaminants that could be present. Building materials that have melted could expose toxic asbestos, lead or other hazardous chemicals. Fires also leave behind smoke and soot residue which can be harmful if inhaled. It is recommended to have testing performed before returning to your property to rule out any of these dangers.
Call The Experts
When a natural disaster strikes, Benchmark Environmental Engineering will be there for all your environmental testing needs. If you’ve been affected by a disaster and your home could be contaminated, contact us today to schedule an ecological assessment.