Cigarette smoke, smoke from fireplaces, deadly carbon monoxide from garages and improperly adjusted kitchen and heating appliances, and radon, a radioactive gas from natural sources, can also be present in homes. Canadian regulations requiring manufacturers to disclose information about emissions are not enforced, but Morton adds that a European labeling program has been very successful. Although new construction techniques that address indoor environment issues have been developed, few of these innovations have been applied to building codes. Furthermore, Morton notes, a buyer or tenant has no legal recourse if he discovers an older home has problems with mold or radon. But while you wait for government action, there are many things you can do as an individual to improve air quality in your home.
Ventilation is key.
Many new homes have mechanical ventilation systems, but in older homes, you can open windows to replace stale air with fresh. If you use a strong cleanser, pesticide or product that instructs you to use it in a well-ventilated area, let the fumes escape through a fan or window, or use it outside. Also, increase ventilation for the first days or weeks after you install new carpets or furnishings. Control potential pollution sources coming into your home. Don't bring in dry-cleaned items if they still smell.