Household Health Hazards

Your home should be a safe place, but sometimes it can have hidden dangers that can harm your health. Knowing about these dangers and how to prevent them is important for keeping you and your family safe. Below is information on various household health hazards, including potential risks, how to spot them, and preventive steps to protect yourself and your family.

It’s important to note that Public Health does not offer services for addressing most of these hazards. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and resources needed to manage these risks effectively.

Help for Tenants and Landlords

If you are a tenant or landlord seeking assistance with housing-related concerns, the following services and resources are available to support you:

Legal Clinics - Provides legal advice to landlords and tenants on housing issues. 

Rental Housing Enforcement Unit (RHEU) - Investigates violations of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).

Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) - Resolves disputes between landlords and tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). 

Municipal Contacts - A list of key contacts for each municipality, including property standards, by-law enforcement, water works, and drinking water services.

Bed Bugs

What are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that bite and feed on blood while people sleep. Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown and about the size of an apple seed. They reproduce quickly and spread easily. Bed bug infestations can happen to anyone, regardless of income, social status, or housing conditions.

Bedbugs: what are they? - Canada.ca

close-up image of a bed bug

Health Risks

Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases, but they can still cause problems. Their bites can make your skin itchy and uncomfortable, and scratching those bites can lead to infections. Some people might have allergic reactions to bed bug bites, which can be mild or more serious. Besides physical health issues, having bed bugs can also cause stress and anxiety. People may worry about being bitten or feel embarrassed about having bed bugs, which can make it hard to relax and sleep well. 

Resources for Renters

If you rent your home and find bed bugs, you should tell your landlord right away. Landlords are responsible for addressing pest problems like bed bugs. Keep a record of all your communications with your landlord and take pictures of the infestation if you can. If your landlord does not act, you can contact your local municipality for help.The Rental Housing Enforcement Unit (RHEU) can also assist if the landlord isn’t following the rules in the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) regarding pest control.

In the meantime, protect yourself by using mattress covers and carefully inspecting your belongings. Avoid using pesticides on your own, as this can be dangerous. If your landlord does not respond, consider contacting the Landlord and Tenant Board for information about your rights as a renter, especially regarding housing conditions like pest infestations.

Resources for Home Owners

If you suspect bed bugs in your home, act quickly. Check your bedding, mattresses, and furniture for signs like small brown spots or shed skins. Vacuum thoroughly, especially in cracks and corners. Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat. Consider using special covers for your mattress and box spring to prevent bed bugs from entering or escaping. While do it yourself methods exist, hiring a professional pest control service is usually the most effective way to eliminate bed bugs completely. They have the expertise to find and remove them safely.

Bedbugs: how do I prevent an infestation? - Canada.ca

Bedbugs: how do I get rid of them? - Canada.ca

Bedbugs: how do I make sure they don’t come back? - Canada.ca

Lead

What is Lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring metal found in the earth’s crust and can be present in many parts of our environment. It has been widely used in products like pipes, plumbing fixtures, and paint.

Your home probably contains lead-based paint if it was built before 1960. If built between 1960 and 1990, the exterior may contain lead-based paint. The paint on interior surfaces may also contain lead in smaller amounts that could still be harmful, especially to young children. Lead paint can cause harm to health if it enters the body. Houses built after 1990 should not contain lead because all consumer paints produced in Canada and the U.S. were virtually lead-free by this time. 

Common Sources of Lead in the Home:

  • Lead-based paint
  • Contaminated soil
  • Plumbing systems
  • Drinking water
  • Certain consumer products

Exposure to lead can be harmful, so it’s important to be aware of these sources, especially in older homes.

Health Risks

Lead can enter your system through your mouth or lungs by ingestion or inhalation. Once lead has entered your bloodstream it can impair cognitive function, cause learning disabilities and lead to behavioral problems in children. It can result in developmental delays and pre-mature birth weight for fetuses. Lead can cause cardiovascular, reproductive, renal, and gastrointestinal issues.

Children are at a higher risk of ingesting lead because of mouthing toys and objects and having their hands in their mouths.

Concerns About Lead?

If you suspect there is lead in your paint:

  • If the lead-based paint is in good condition and is not on a surface that a child might chew, your risk is minimal.
  • It’s best to leave it alone, paint over it, or cover it with wallpaper, wallboard or paneling. 
  • If the lead-based paint is cracking, chipping, flaking or peeling, or if it is on a surface that a child might chew, the paint should be removed safely. 

If you think there may be lead in your drinking water, follow these steps:

  • Contact Your Local Waterworks Department: Reach out to the waterworks department in your area to inquire about having your water tested.
  • Arrange for Testing: You may need to arrange for testing through a private accredited laboratory. You can find a list of licensed laboratories at ontario.ca.
  • If you live in Guelph, you might qualify for free water testing. You can call 519-822-1260 ext. 2263 or email leadtesting@guelph.ca for more information.

Consult your local municipal contacts for more information.

Resources

WDG Public Health: Lead Water Pipes

Lead Information Package - Some Commonly Asked Questions About Lead and Human Health - Canada.ca

Drinking Water Quality

Municipal Water

Municipal water systems provide many Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph residents with safe drinking water, sourced either from bedrock aquifers deep below the earth’s surface or from surface water sources like lakes and rivers. 

Ontario municipalities are responsible for regularly testing and monitoring the quality of municipal water to ensure it meets provincial safety standards. This includes testing for bacteria, chemical contaminants, and other potential hazards to ensure the water remains safe for consumption. 

For more information about your local municipal water system and its testing practices, please refer to the Municipal Contacts section to find your local municipality.

Resources for Homeowners on a Private Well

Homeowners are responsible for testing the water quality of their private wells to ensure it is safe to drink. Testing for microbiological parameters such as E. coli and total coliform bacteria is available, free of charge, through Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. If you wish to test for other potential contaminants, such as chemicals, this can be done through private laboratories at your own cost. 

Well water can become contaminated by several factors, including: 

  •  Wells that are not properly maintained 
  • Flooding or runoff from agricultural areas 
  • Poorly maintained septic systems 
  • Overuse of the well 

Contaminated well water can cause serious illness if not properly managed. Regular testing is essential to identify issues early and protect your health. 

For more information on well water testing and how to disinfect your well, please visit our Well Water Testing page. If you have additional questions or concerns about your private well, contact Public Health for assistance. 

Nitrates and Private Well Water

Nitrates in drinking water are primarily a health concern for infants. If you are on a private well, do not feed your baby formula with the well water until it has been tested for nitrates. Please consult our Drinking Water and Nitrates webpage for more information.

Drinking Water and Lead

Lead in your drinking water system can affect your health. Refer to our lead section for more information on how to keep your drinking water safe. 

Resources for Renters

If you have concerns about your drinking water, start by reporting them to your landlord, as they are responsible for ensuring the water provided is safe to drink. 

If your concerns are not addressed or you need further assistance, you can: 

Pesticides

Health Risks of Pesticide Exposure

Pesticides refer to any pest control products, like herbicides used to control weeds (e.g., Roundup), or electronic insect or rodent devices. Exposure can lead to skin irritation, eye tearing, coughing, breathing difficulties, and headaches. In some situations, serious medical conditions may result. Vulnerable groups are at highest risk which include infants, children, pregnant and nursing mothers, and seniors. Ensure these individuals stay out of the area when applying pesticides. Stay out of a treated areas for a minimum of 12 hours after a pesticide has been applied. 

Resources for Household Pesticide Users 

If you plan to apply pesticides for cosmetic purposes around your home, please consult this page: Pesticides (home lawns and gardens) | ontario.ca. Note that Ontario regulates what pesticides can be used for cosmetic use; the use of 2,4-D, diazinon, and glyphosate (e.g., Roundup) are prohibited for cosmetic purposes in Ontario. 

Concerns Around Pesticide Use? 

Human exposure: If you suspect exposure to a pesticide, call the Ontario Poison Centre immediately at 1-844-764-7669. 

Animal exposure: If you suspect your animal has been accidentally poisoned, seek veterinary help immediately. 

If you have concerns about pesticide application in your area, contact a local ministry district office during regular business hours. For after business inquiries, to report a spill, or in an emergency, contact: 

  • Pollution Hotline at 1-866-663-8477 

  • Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060 

Indoor Temperatures

Managing Extreme Indoor Temperatures

Extreme outdoor temperatures can negatively affect your health and the health of your loved ones. Keep yourself and others protected by limiting exposure to extreme temperatures by preparing your home, checking in on loved ones and neighbours to make sure they are okay, and taking advantage of heating and cooling places within your municipality. 

For more information on protecting yourself from extreme temperatures, please visit the links below: 

Guelph-Wellington Poverty Task Force Community Hot Weather Response 

Guelph-Wellington Poverty Task Force Community Cold Weather Response 

Resources for Renters

Your landlord has specific requirements for heating your unit. Heat is listed as a “vital service” according to the Landlord and Tenant Act and must be made available to renters from September 1st to June 15th. Indoor temperatures must be at least 20°C if the tenant does not regulate their own temperature or be able to be maintained at 20°C if the tenant regulates their own temperature.

Air conditioning is not required to be provided by your landlord or property manager; however, they may have air conditioning units available. It is your responsibility as a tenant to ensure that the unit is installed properly and does not pose a risk to other residents. Consult with your landlord about installation of air conditioning in your rental unit.

The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) can assist you with navigating issues with your landlord and can inform you of your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Waste Management

Safe Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste 

Please consult the links below for your region to learn about hazardous waste disposal, or visit the Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority (RPRA) Where to Recycle Map. 

Dufferin County (including Amaranth, East Garafraxa, Grand Valley, Melancthon, Mono, Mulmur, Orangeville, and Shelburne): 

Wellington County (including Centre Wellington, Erin, Guelph-Eramosa, Mapleton, Minto, Puslinch, and Wellington North): 

City of Guelph: 

Asbestos

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a natural mineral that looks like tiny fibers. It was often used before 1990 to insulate buildings against cold weather, reduce noise, and provide fireproofing. You can still find asbestos in older buildings, especially in things like insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing materials, and heating systems. 

Health Risks

Asbestos can be very dangerous if tiny fibers get into the air and you breathe them in. This can happen during home renovations when you do things like sanding, drilling, or sawing. Breathing in these small asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, such as lung cancer, scarring of the lungs and mesothelioma which is a rare cancer of the lining of the chest or abdominal cavity.

For a full list please see Asbestos and your health - Canada.ca 

Resources for Renters

If you rent your home and are concerned about asbestos, start by notifying your landlord in writing. If your landlord does not respond, you can reach out to the Landlord and Tenant Board for information about your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act. It is important to know and understand your rights as a tenant.

You can also contact your local municipality for assistance. Remember, it is not safe to try to fix or remove anything that might have asbestos yourself. Always ask your landlord to get professional help. If you are still worried, you can talk to a local group that helps renters or ask a lawyer for advice.  

Resources for Homeowners

If you own a home and think there might be asbestos in your house, it is important to get help. You can contact a certified asbestos removal professional for help with identification and removal. To find these professionals, search for licensed asbestos abatement companies in your area.  

If you are thinking about renovating your home, always talk to experts first to make sure you are staying safe and following local rules. It is important to keep any materials that might have asbestos in good shape to stop fibers from being released. Never try to remove asbestos yourself—always get professional help. 

Carbon monoxide

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste. It has made when fuels like gas, oil, coal, wood, or propane do not burn completely. In homes, it can come from things like furnaces, water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, and car engines. Carbon monoxide is very harmful because it can build up in enclosed spaces without anyone noticing.  

If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, leave the building immediately and call 9-1-1.  Remember, your safety is important, and you have the right to a safe living environment.  

Health Risks

Carbon monoxide (CO) can be very dangerous. At low levels, it can cause flu-like symptoms such as feeling tired, having headaches, and trouble breathing. It can also make your muscles weak or cause part of your body to stop working properly. If you are around CO for longer or at higher levels, you might feel dizzy, have chest pain, blurry vision, or trouble thinking. In very high amounts, CO can lead to seizures, passing out, going into a coma, or even death. 

Resources for Renters

If you rent your home, you still need to be aware of carbon monoxide risks. In Ontario, landlords must install carbon monoxide alarms in rental units with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages. If you do not have a carbon monoxide alarm, ask your landlord to install one. If they do not, you can contact your local municipality or the Landlord and Tenant Board for help.

If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, leave the building immediately and call 9-1-1.  Remember, your safety is important, and you have the right to a safe living environment.  

Resources for Homeowners

If you own a home, it is important to protect yourself and your family from carbon monoxide. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home, especially near bedrooms. Check these detectors regularly to make sure they are working. If you have concerns about carbon monoxide, contact your local fire department’s non-emergency number for safety information and guidance on carbon monoxide alarms. For concerns related to specific fuel-burning appliances, consider contacting a licensed HVAC technician or your local gas company. In case of suspected exposure, call 9-1-1 immediately.  

Mould and Mildew

What is Mould and Mildew?

Mould and mildew are fungi that grow in damp, humid places and need to be stopped by fixing moisture problems. Moisture can come from water leaks, rain, or daily activities like cooking, showering, and laundry. Poor ventilation, water damage, and high humidity often lead to mould growth, especially in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and on materials like wood, drywall, carpet, and fabric. While mould is a natural part of the environment, having it in your home can cause health problems and damage your property. Keeping your home dry is the best way to prevent it. 

Health Risks

Being around mould and mildew can make you sick, especially if you have allergies or asthma. Common symptoms include sneezing, coughing, runny or stuffy noses, skin rashes, and itchy eyes. For people with asthma, mould can make it harder to breathe or trigger asthma attacks. If you are around mould for a long time, you might also feel tired, get headaches, or have sinus infections. Some people may even experience more serious health issues. Children, babies, older adults, and pregnant women are at a higher risk of getting sick from mould. 

Resources for Renters

Mould is a sign that there is too much moisture in your home, and the source of that moisture must be fixed to prevent mould from growing and spreading. Moisture can come from water leaks, rain getting inside, or daily activities like cooking, showering, and doing laundry. To reduce moisture, ensure proper ventilation when showering or cooking, and consider using a dehumidifier to help with moisture caused by daily activities. However, if the moisture is due to a water leak, poor ventilation, or a structural issue, contact your landlord.  

If your landlord doesn’t act, refer to your local Municipal Contacts to speak to someone in property standards. In Ontario, the Rental Housing Enforcement Unit (RHEU) can investigate issues like unsafe living conditions, including mould, if they relate to violations of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). You can also get information about your rights as a renter from the Landlord and Tenant Board. If mould is making you sick or unsafe, there may be legal options. Keep records of all your conversations with your landlord about the mould problem. For additional advice, check out resources from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). 

Resources for Homeowners

If you own a home and find mould, it is important to deal with it quickly to keep your family safe. First, look for any sources of moisture, like leaks or areas that are too humid. For small patches of mould (less than 1 square meter), you might be able to clean it yourself using household cleaners and wearing gloves and a mask. If the mould is larger or you are not sure how to handle it, consider hiring a professional who knows how to remove mould safely.  

You can also contact Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 extension 4753 for advice on cleaning methods. There are also helpful guides from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) on preventing and fixing mould problems in homes. 

Radon

What is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is released from the soil. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it, but this naturally occurring radioactive gas can leak into your home from soil, rock, and groundwater. It seeps into buildings through cracks in the foundation. Once inside your home, it can accumulate, and the higher the concentration, the greater the risk of developing lung cancer.  

Who is at Risk?

Homeowners and renters who spend at least 4 hours per day in a basement or low-lying part of the house may be at risk. Knowing radon levels within these spaces is the best first step at determining your risk. 

Learn more about radon

Learn more about protecting yourself and loved ones from the impacts of radon.

WDG Public Health | Radon

WDG Public Health Stay Well Blog: Reduce your radon risk. Protect your family.

Other Indoor Air Pollutants

Carbon Dioxide

High CO2 levels in your home can be indicative of poor ventilation and overall poor indoor air quality. Indoor CO2 usually comes from cigarette smoke or poorly vented fuel-burning appliances. Outdoors, sources of CO2 affecting air quality include forest fires and vehicle emissions. Learn more about the impacts of carbon dioxide in your home here: Carbon dioxide in your home - Canada.ca 

Dust and Pet Dander

Dust and pet dander can accumulate in your home, leading to respiratory illness or allergic reaction. Keep your home clean and free of dust and pet dander by vacuuming and dusting regularly. 

Nitrogen Dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide comes from fuel-burning appliances like gas stoves, fireplaces, and furnaces, as well as cigarette smoke, or from outdoor sources, like from traffic emissions. Homes with gas stoves usually have higher NO2 levels than other homes. Levels are higher in the winter when windows are closed, and ventilation is reduced. Without proper ventilation, levels can build up in your home and affect your health. Learn more about nitrogen dioxide impacts here: Nitrogen dioxide - Canada.ca 

Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (or VOCs) include many different compounds that can affect air quality and your health. They come from many sources, including cigarette smoke, burning of candles/incense, air fresheners, fuel-burning appliances (wood and gas stoves, furnaces that are improperly vented), building and construction materials (e.g., paints and adhesives), and can be produced during cooking (especially from frying and sauteing). VOC exposure can lead to respiratory issues, headache, fatigue, nausea, and ear, nose, and throat irritation. Ensure your home is properly ventilated and that fuel-burning equipment are properly maintained. Learn more about VOC exposure here: Volatile organic compounds - Canada.ca 

Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke can affect indoor air quality: Monitor outdoor air quality and be aware of the potential for wildfire smoke in your area. Protect your indoor air quality using the resources found at the links below.  

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a great tool you can use to help you understand how air quality may affect your health. Monitor it regularly, especially during the summer, so you can stay informed about health risks in your area. 

Improving Indoor Air Quality

How can I Improve Indoor Air Quality in My Home? 

Key strategies that you can take to improve indoor air quality include the following: 

  • Have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly.
  • Ensure proper ventilation of your home: have HVAC systems inspected and well-maintained.
  • Open windows when possible – be sure to check the outdoor Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) before doing so to make sure the outdoor air will not impact your home.
  • Use your range hood fan regularly.
  • Avoid smoking and vaping indoors.
  • Change your furnace or air purifier filters regularly.
  • Improve indoor air quality in your home - Canada.ca 

Check out the infographic from Health Canada to learn how you can improve air quality in your household. 

If you have concerns about outdoor air pollution that may be impacting your indoor air quality and health, contact the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) via the Spills Action Centre 

Emergency Reporting, 24/7: 1-866-663-8477 

Resources for Homeowners

It is your responsibility to maintain the air quality in your home. If you have concerns or questions about maintaining good air quality in your home, contact Public Health or visit the resources below: 

Resources for Renters

Your landlord or property owner may have certain responsibilities when it comes to maintaining indoor air quality, especially if you think your health is being impacted. Consult your local municipality for more information. The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) can assist you with navigating issues with your landlord and can inform you of your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Legal Clinics and Landlord and Tenant Board Contacts

Legal Clinics Contacts

Legal clinics provide legal advice on housing matters to landlords and tenants. Legal clinics can help with issues like defending against an eviction application, advising on rights, and representation at LTB hearings.

Legal Clinic of Guelph and Wellington 
519-821-2100 
https://www.gwlegalclinic.ca/ 

Legal Clinic for Dufferin County 
1-866-455-0160 
https://www.northpeeldufferinjustice.ca/

Rental Housing Enforcement Unit (RHEU) Contacts 

The RHEU enforces the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) by investigating issues like illegal evictions, harassment, or non-compliance. It provides guidance and resolution support to both landlords and tenants. 

Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Contacts

Municipal Contacts

Municipal by-laws set standards for property maintenance, including repairs, safety, and cleanliness. Tenants can report issues, and landlords can seek guidance from their local municipality. Below is a directory with contact information for each municipality. 

Contact Information by Municipality

Municipality 

Contact Information 

Amaranth, Township of 
  • Municipal water issues: Dufferin Water Co., 519-942-5695 

Centre Wellington, Township of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking Water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries: 519-846-9691 x 905 

East Garafraxa, Township of 
  • Municipal drinking water information: link 
  • Municipal water issues inquiries: Dufferin Water Co., 519-942-5695 

Erin, Town of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries: 519-939-8529 

Grand Valley, Town of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water – general inquiries: 519-928-5652 
  • Drinking water – emergency/after hours, Dufferin Water Co.: 519-942-5695 

Guelph, City of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 

Guelph-Eramosa, Township of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries: 519-856-9596 x 122 

Mapleton, Township of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • General Public Works inquiries: 519-638-3313 x 046 

Melancthon, Township of

Minto, Town of 
  • Property standards by-law: link
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries, on-call:  519-321-9311 

Mono, Township of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 

Mulmur, Township of
  • Property standards inquiries:  705-466-3341 x 223 or info@mulmur.ca 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries: Dufferin Water Co., 519-942-5695

Orangeville, Town of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water emergencies: 519-941-0440 x 4500 

Puslinch, Township of
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 

Shelburne, Township of 
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries:  519-925-2600 x 231 

Wellington North, Township of
  • Property standards by-law: link 
  • Drinking water information: link 
  • Drinking water inquiries: 519-848-3620 
  • Drinking water inquiries - emergencies: 519-323-1710