Real Estate Agents Learn Environmental Stewardship

ENVIRONMENT/LABOUR--Real Estate Agents Learn Environmental Stewardship

People involved in the real estate business in Nova Scotia are learning about how environmental law affects homeowners. Nova Scotia Environment and Labour has signed an agreement to provide training on environmental issues to members of the Nova Scotia Association of Realtors.

"Home ownership carries many environmental responsibilities," said Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash. "The members of the realtors' association need to know about these responsibilities so they can provide better advice to their clients."

The training includes sessions on private well ownership, on-site sewage disposal and oil tank safety. "Department staff spend a lot of time talking with the public about these matters," said Mr. Morash. "So having the real estate community help homeowners understand their responsibilities will be a great benefit."

Association executive officer Arnold Jones agrees. "Everyone involved in a real estate transaction, but especially a first- time homeowner, depends on the real estate agent's advice. We want agents to have the right information available to them."

The department and the association recently held a pilot course on oil-tank installation and maintenance. "There are hundreds of tank leaks every year," Mr. Morash said. "They generate significant clean-up costs and can cause a variety of environmental problems for which the homeowner is responsible".

Mr. Jones agreed. "It's important for both buyer and seller to be aware of this, and to understand how simple maintenance practices can minimize the risk and maintain a property's value."

Under the agreement, the department develops the training syllabus and provides staff time for the courses. The association promotes the training to its members, provides a location and awards continuing education credits.