Is It Advisable to Purchase a Property near to Power Lines? (2023)

As a potential homebuyer, you might have heard stories about the dangers of living near high voltage power lines. This concern has led many buyers to avoid purchasing a home in close proximity to them. However, the question remains: is living near power lines really as bad as it’s made out to be? And should you consider buying a house near them?

Location is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing a home, as it can impact many aspects of life. School systems and property values are just a few examples. However, one critical aspect that may be overlooked is the impact on long-term health. A home’s location near power lines is a common concern among buyers. Despite the mild differences in location, it can have a significant impact on one’s well-being.

If you’re considering buying a home near power lines, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, buying a home near power lines can be risky, and there are a number of cons to living near them. However, there may also be some benefits to living near power lines. It’s important to consider how close you are to the power lines, as this can impact your health and the value of your home. Finally, if you do decide to buy a home near power lines, you may find it more difficult to sell in the future. Overall, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Should You Consider Purchasing a House in Close Proximity to Power Lines?

If possible, it’s best to steer clear of purchasing or renting a home that’s in close proximity to numerous power lines. This can have a negative impact on property values and can also pose potential risks to both your safety and your home. While it may not necessarily be a dealbreaker, it’s certainly not an ideal situation to be in.

Purchasing a home near a power line tower can save you money in many cases, but it also comes with risk.

Why Buying a Home Near Power Lines is a Risky Decision?

Purchasing a house near power lines poses several risks that one should be aware of. The most significant risk is the heightened likelihood of fire and electrocution, as well as radiation exposure from the EMF radiation emitted by power lines. This type of radiation can result in various health problems. Furthermore, it may prove challenging to sell a home that is situated near power lines.

Living Near Power Lines – The Drawbacks

1. The Danger of Fires Rising

Living near power lines can come with a significant disadvantage, which is the increased risk of fire. Despite taking good care of your property, electrical fires can still pose a serious threat. When power lines are in close proximity, this risk is even higher. A simple occurrence, such as a fallen tree branch and a live wire, combined with old leaves, can quickly turn your lawn into a raging inferno. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of this potential danger and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of fire.

Fortunately, many local governments have taken measures to increase safety and prevent fires or damage. In case of any breakage, it is advisable to stay inside your home and immediately contact 911 for assistance.

2. The Danger of Electrocution Has Increased

Dealing with any conduit for electricity always comes with the risk of electrocution. A live cut wire can lead to shocking results and, in some cases, cause significant damage to your property. It’s important to be aware of this risk and take necessary precautions to prevent any mishaps.

3. The Dangers of Increased Radiation Exposure

Many people tend to overlook the potential risks associated with power lines. However, it is important to consider the electromagnetic radiation that they emit as a result of conducting electricity.

The amount of radiation exposure is usually minimal and not comparable to having a pot of uranium at the edge of your house. Nevertheless, over time, this exposure can accumulate and potentially increase the risk of cancer. Approximately 20 percent of studies on this topic have suggested this outcome.

Approximately 50% of studies indicate that there are no adverse effects from the low-level radiation emitted by power lines. While there is variability in the findings of these studies, it is important to be aware of this potential risk. However, the level of risk associated with exposure to this radiation is a topic of ongoing debate.

4. Unwanted Buzzing Sounds

Although high-voltage power lines do not pose a significant danger to the general public, the low hum and buzz they produce are often noticeable. The same is also true for larger power stations that have multiple hubs.

The constant buzzing noise that most of us encounter on a daily basis is usually just a minor annoyance. But for a select few, it can actually trigger migraines or exacerbate existing ones. This can be a real challenge for those who are sensitive to noise and may require extra measures to manage their condition.

Is Living Near Power Lines Beneficial?

One of the advantages of residing near power lines is that it can be more cost-effective. Properties situated in close proximity to power lines are often less expensive, which means purchasing a house near them can save you some money.

Furthermore, it is important to note that power lines do not pose any health risks to individuals who live at a safe distance from them.

Living Near Power Lines: How Close Is Too Close?

Experts suggest that living a minimum of 700 feet from high-voltage power lines is ideal, however, the farther away you are, the better. On the other hand, low-voltage power lines, like those found on telephone poles, require a shorter distance. While experts may have varying opinions, it is generally agreed that the risks decrease significantly when you stay at least 50 feet away from most electrical lines.

How Living Close to Power Lines Affects Home Values

Living in close proximity to high-voltage power lines can have a significant impact on your property’s value. Typically, such homes can see a decline of 10 to 30 percent in their value. However, the extent of this impact can vary depending on several factors, including the voltage of the lines and the presence of a nearby power station. In some extreme cases, the value of the property can drop by as much as 40 percent. It’s not uncommon for homes located near multiple high-voltage power lines to receive this discount, which is not necessarily a desirable incentive to live there.

According to studies, low-voltage power lines have a negligible effect on home values. Hence, you need not be overly concerned about their impact on prices.

Is it Difficult to Sell a Home in Proximity to Power Lines?

According to various studies, selling a house in close proximity to power lines can take significantly longer than those that are located further away from them. Real estate agents often caution both buyers and sellers about this issue. If you’re considering purchasing a property near power lines, it’s important to note that this could potentially become a significant issue in the future. As more information about the potential risks of electromagnetic radiation becomes available, people are becoming increasingly hesitant about the idea of living near these power lines.

It may come as a surprise to you, but properties situated near electric towers are prone to being deserted without finding any prospective buyers. This leads to an increase in the number of abandoned homes in these areas. If this is a concern for you, it is advisable to consider a mass sell-off through a reputable real estate development company. This can help you get rid of your property without any hassle.

Living Near Power Lines: The Bottom Line

The question of whether living near power lines is safe or not has been a topic of debate for years. While the research results are somewhat varied, a considerable number of them suggest that residing near power lines may not be the wisest decision due to potential health hazards. However, it seems that the majority of public opinion exaggerates the risks involved.

It’s a fact that any real estate property located near power lines, even if it’s an empty lot, can come with a considerable amount of risks and negative perception. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully consider before purchasing such a property. If you’re uncertain about what to do, it’s recommended to seek guidance from a professional real estate agent. Their valuable advice can be the key to making the right decision.

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