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Comment

Despite the current uncertainties about the state of the U.S. economy, there are some priorities that should still be highlighted when considering housing investment; one of those basic priorities should always be improving safety and liveability in existing housing. I won't pretend to be a financial expert, but I do recognize the importance of properly renovating and maintaining existing buildings-- doing so has financial, environmental, and cultural benefits for residents and their neighbors.
The issue I am specifically considering concerns the proper handling of lead and asbestos, especially in historic buildings. Historic preservation is crucial to many communities for a variety of reasons, from attracting tourism to providing housing to residents. Such structures become a hazard, however, when harmful construction materials and old infrastructure are ignored in favor of saving a quick buck. While removing these materials (or sealing them, in some cases-- asbestos especially is often sealed over with new materials to prevent particles from leaching into the air) can be costly in the short term, the benefits outweigh those costs, as a restored building is more accessible, sustainable, and potentially more culturally significant (especially when considering historic architecture) than a new building.
While reviewing financial housing policy, I implore you to consider reserving funding to improve infrastructure in existing buildings. Use this funding to replace lead piping, safely remove lead paint, and ensure that asbestos materials do not pose a threat to residents. Enforce safe housing policies if possible and ensure that servicers are using proper safety protocols when handling these materials, especially when considering lead and asbestos particulates in the air. This funding can be the key to improving liveability in these buildings and eliminating health risks, putting financial contributors at the forefront of a new era of environmental health and safety.