If you’re considering buying or selling property near Andersen Air Force Base (AAFB) in Guam, it’s important to be aware of the current environmental risks associated with the area, including PFAS. The Base has a long history of hazardous substance contamination, which could impact property values and pose serious health concerns for homeowners. Understanding risks and legal options available to recoup damages or pay for remediation can help protect your investment and your health!
Why Andersen Air Force Base Has PFAS Contamination Risks
Andersen Air Force Base (AFB), located on the northern tip of Guam, has been a strategic military outpost since its origins in World War II. First known as North Field, the base was constructed in 1944 and quickly became an integral part of the U.S. military’s bombing campaign against Japan. Over the decades, Andersen AFB played key roles in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as numerous humanitarian and strategic operations throughout the Pacific and beyond. The base is currently home to Pacific Air Forces’ 36th Air Base Wing, among other commands, and remains a crucial logistics and power projection center for U.S. forces in the Indo-Pacific region (Pacific Air Forces, 'Andersen Air Force Base')
However, this extensive history of military activity has come with environmental consequences. Over the years, hazardous substances such as trichloroethane (TCE), fuel residues, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), military munitions, and firefighting foam containing PFAS have contaminated the soil and groundwater surrounding the base. This includes contamination of the Northern Guam Lens Aquifer (NGLA), a freshwater lens within the limestone bedrock that covers the northern half of the island and supplies 90% of Guam’s fresh water to the population (Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center, 'Groundwater percolation in Northern Guam'). Despite cleanup efforts led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Defense, some areas remain significantly impacted, raising concerns for nearby residents and potential homebuyers.
Homeownership near a site with a known history of contamination, especially one designated a Superfund site, carries long-term risks and uncertainties. Remediating sites like Andersen AFB often spans years, slowed by the complexity of toxic cleanup operations, bureaucratic hurdles, funding limitations, and stringent environmental regulations. For residents in surrounding communities, this can translate into ongoing health concerns, fluctuations in property values, and the burden of navigating unclear disclosure laws regarding contamination risks.
As the government continues to address PFAS and other pollutants stemming from decades of military use, community awareness is more important than ever. Homeowners and potential buyers near Andersen AFB should remain informed about environmental testing updates, health advisories, and legal options available for those impacted by toxic exposure. Understanding the legacy of Andersen’s operations helps contextualize both the strategic significance of the base and the environmental challenges now confronting its neighbors.
If You Are Buying Property Near Andersen AFB
- Conduct Through Environmental Testing: Before purchasing a home, request water and soil contamination tests to assess potential exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Review Seller Disclosures: Guam real estate laws may require sellers to disclose known environmental hazards, but conducting independent inspections can provide additional security.
- Consider Future Property Value Impacts: Even if the home is safe now, nearby contamination could affect property values and resale potential in the future.
If You Are Selling Property Near Andersen AFB
- Ensure Full Disclosure: Not disclosing contamination risks can lead to legal consequences. Being transparent with buyers can prevent potential lawsuits
- Invest in Environmental Assessments: If contamination exists, you may need to remediate the property before selling or adjust pricing accordingly.
- Understand Legal Rights to Compensation: If contamination from the base has negatively impacted your property, you may be eligible for legal action to recoup damages with The Downs Law Group.
Health Risks of Living Near Andersen AFB
Exposure to PFAS/PFOA toxic contamination has been linked to serious health conditions. Those who lived, worked, or owned a home near Superfund sites may be entitled to compensation if they developed the following linked conditions:
- Kidney Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Hypothyroidism
- Ulcerative Colitis
If you or your family members have developed any of these conditions and have lived near Andersen AFB, you may qualify for legal action. The Downs Law Group offers FREE case evaluations at (305) 444-8226.
How The Downs Law Group Can Help
If you’re dealing with property damage or health issues due to contamination from Andersen AFB, you don’t have to face it alone. The Downs Law Group is actively representing property owners and individuals affected by environmental contamination.
Legal Action to Recoup Damages
Homeowners in affected areas may be entitled to compensation for:
- Decreased property value due to environmental contamination.
- Remediation costs for necessary clean-up efforts.
- Medical expenses related to exposure-linked illnesses.
- Pain and suffering for health and quality of life impacts.
What You Need to Pursue a Lawsuit
To build a strong case, gathering key evidence is crucial. The Downs Law Group can help you collect and organize documents such as:
- Medical records linking your medically diagnosed illness to chemical exposure.
- Property records and environmental test results showing contamination. This is often provided via public EPA records.
- Employment or residency records proving time spent near contaminated areas.
Next Steps for Affected Homeowners
Whether you're buying, selling, or currently living in the area, understanding the risks and available legal actions can help protect your property investment and well-being. If contamination has impacted your home or health, The Downs Law Group is here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
If you own property near Andersen AFB and are concerned about contamination, you may have legal options to recover financial losses and protect your health. Contact The Downs Law Group today for a FREE consultation to determine your eligibility for a lawsuit. Call (305) 444-8226!
Learn more about Military Base PFAS Contamination lawsuits.