The hazards increase if:
(1) the building was poorly constructed
(2) the building has been infested by birds, rodents or small animals
(3) there is water damage
(4) little is known about it
(5) there is structural damage
(6) it was left abandoned for some time
(7) chemicals or radioactive compounds were used by former owners
Infectious hazards:
(1) histoplasmosis (from bird droppings)
(2) hantavirus (from mouse dried mouse feces)
(3) psittacosis
(4) rabies (from bat droppings or raccoons)
(5) mold (associated with water damage)
(6) Baylisascaris
(7) infection from rat-bites
(8) anthrax
Traumatic:
(1) structural collapse
(2) falls (down stairs, through floors)
(3) booby traps
(4) construction accidents
Toxic:
(1) lead paint
(2) toxic chemicals left by previous occupants
(3) contaminated water supply
(4) asbestos
Other:
(1) accumulation of radon (if building poorly ventilated)
(2) electrical injury
