Multiple Chemical Sensitivity seems to be one of those new ailments that we have been hearing so much about. While we are all at the early learning stage when it comes to this disease, the fact remains that many people in this world seem to experience allergic reactions to just about everything. I know from where they come; I may be one of them.

In real estate, the pros have learned that niche marketing is one way to stand out. Some are experts regarding vacation resorts, others specialize in million dollar residences. Still others focus on shore communities.

Now, a new speciality has emerged: hotels and apartments that cater to the chemically sensitive. These accommodations are designed to make life liveable for chemically sensitive customers. Generally, smoking is out as is also wall to wall carpeting. Many cleaning supplies, pesticides and scented products are also prohibited at these new facilities.

Take for example the Pride and Joy Environmental Resort located in South Melbourne Beach, Florida. The facility boasts prime ocean front rentals, sea turtles, dolphins and whales. Its what is not found, however, that makes the Pride and Joy standout: no toxic cleaners, no scented products, no pesticides, and no, no, no smoking. Smoking is always a no-no at these facilities.

According to owner Val Gaccione, who in an advertisement claims to suffer from multiple chemical sensitivity himself, it was his dream to create a safe, non-toxic haven from the assaults found in everyday life.

The Natural Place Environmental Residence and Hotel is also located in Florida -- specifically Deerfield Beach. Owner Alan Charney told me that he has been offering environmentally friendly rentals since 1992. Charney goes to great lengths to keep out toxic chemicals and other allergens. A two-page Quality Assurance Agreement must be accepted by all guests -- and its this Agreement that helps ensure that the facility remains toxic-free.

Under the Agreement, all scented products, clothes washed in scented detergents or covered with perfume, and other toxins are expressly off-limits. Pesticides are also prohibited and smoking is prohibited anywhere on the premises. The management reserves the right to refuse accommodations or reject any guests who violates any terms of this Agreement.

Charney advises that he now offers full-time housing at a much lower rate, in addition to short term vacation stays. He told me that there is a need for both hotel and full-time living quarters for people with multiple chemicals sensitivity.

Multiple chemical sensitivity is a relatively recent phenomenon. Individuals who suffer from it complain of ailments such as chronic headaches, dizziness, memory loss, rashes, chronic fatigue and breathing difficulty. Many experts appear to be convinced that this is all real and very serious. Certainly, those who claim to be afflicted are sure that this is all real and verifiable.

One thing that is clear, as a nation we are finally starting to take indoor air quality seriously. I have previously told you about Maine's ahead of its time Indoor Air Quality Council. That Council is exploring complaints such as multiple chemical sensitivity, as part of its mission to understand the full scope of indoor air quality and its various impacts on people.

Recently, the Council's President, John L. Jones, P.E., informed me that this broad issue can only be addressed in a multi-disciplined, coordinated manner. The following kinds of people must work together: building architects, engineers, maintenance personnel, medical professionals, space occupants, and other stakeholders. Stakeholders is a fancy word used by environmental professionals to broadly refer to all interested parties.

Mr. Jones cautioned that air quality issues cannot be examined in a vacuum. Here is a real interesting observation from Mr. Jones. During our several "energy crises," buildings were designed to be as air tight as possible, maximizing environmental efficiency. Buildings designed between 1974 and 1990 have a higher incidence of indoor environmental problems and health related symptoms than do buildings designed before and after this period. If this is correct, it is potentially very revealing.

From my personal standpoint, it appears that an increasing number of people are claiming to suffer from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. Now, a new niche in the real estate market is beginning to emerge: residences and hotels that cater to those who suffer from this problem.

The information provided in this column is written by Stuart Lieberman,a practicing environmental attorney, and is for general information purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be used in place of legal advice.

Stuart Lieberman, Esq., and IRED.Com, Inc., will not accept any responsibilty for any reliance on the information in this column or any damages whatsoever resulting from reading this column.