Per–and Polyfluoroalkyl substances, known by many acronyms (PFOA, PFOS, C-8, now collectively being referred to as PFAS & "Forever Chemicals") are man made chemicals that have been used in thousands of products since the 1930s. When discovered, PFAS were considered a miracle compound and were (and still are) used in the manufacture of many common commercial and household items, including nonstick kitchenware, fabrics, cosmetics, firefighting foam, and more.

Over time, these products have leached into our soil and water, and according to the CDC, measurable levels of PFAS are likely found in the bloodstream of every American. The health effects are still being studied, but initial findings indicate that at certain levels, PFAS may cause a variety of negative health effects.

What does all of this mean for Real Estate Transactions in NH? Well, as a PFAS "hot spot," NH has implemented some of the lowest limits in the country for PFAS in drinking water. Several towns in the state are dealing with PFAS contamination, which can potentially bring down home values and/or derail a sale. Armed with information about PFAS, you will better be able to help your clients navigate the facts versus fiction, and what to do if a home does have PFAS in the drinking water.

Helpful Links & Resources Mentioned in this Presentation:
• ITRC site, for a scientific, deep dive on PFAS (fact sheets, videos, etc.):
https://pfas-1.itrcweb.org
• NHDES Public Water System PFAS Summary by Town:
https://www4.des.state.nh.us/nh-pfas-investigation/wp-content/uploads/Statewide-PFAS-Occurence-Status-Report-12012020.pdf
• NHDES Be Well Informed Page, to help decipher your Lab Report:
www4.des.state.nh.us/DWITool
• Find a certified Water Treatment Professional:
https://www.wqa.org/Programs-Services/Resources/Find-Providers/Find-Certified-Professionals
• Treatment options if you have PFAS in your Drinking Water:
https://www4.des.state.nh.us/nh-pfas-investigation/?page_id=171
• Environmental Protection Agency official PFAS Page:
www.epa.gov/pfas
• Centers for Disease Control/ATSDR (PFAS Health Effects & Studies):
www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas
• Pease PFAS Health Study (looking for folks w/ Pease (NH) connection any
time between 2004-2014, adults, children & breastfeeding Moms):
www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/activities/pease/community-fact-sheet.html#eligibility
• Blog Post: Environmental Testing & Real Estate Transactions: https://www.absoluteresourceassociates.com/blog10-21_EnvironmentalTestingandRealEstate.cfm

Email us if you'd like a pdf of this presentation with clickable hyperlinks: info@absoluteresourceassociates.com