15,000 people die per year from asbestos in America. Asbestos is a hazardous material used in building construction. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to serious health issues such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.
However, if you find asbestos in your home, don’t touch or try to clean it yourself. Get help from licensed inspectors, as only they can perform asbestos inspections.
⚡KEY TAKEAWAYS
What Is Asbestos Inspection?
An asbestos inspection identifies asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings. Inhaling asbestos is hazardous, so inspectors look for materials used with it in the past. These materials include ceiling tiles, flooring, insulation, and paints.
An asbestos inspection typically costs around $482, but prices can range from $230 to $780. The lab tests samples from suspect materials to see if they contain asbestos. The inspector then provides a report showing any ACMs found and their locations.
Do I Need to Test for Asbestos in My Home?
You don’t always need to test for asbestos. However, it’s good to know when to do it. If your home was built before 1980, it might have asbestos because it was common at that time.
On the other hand, homes built after 1990 don’t need testing if the building material looks fine. However, it’s always best to consult a professional. They can tell you if you need a test and what is the next step.
Does a Standard Home Inspection Include Asbestos Inspection?
Regular home inspections don’t include asbestos testing. Home inspectors focus on the general condition of the structure and major systems. However, they aren’t trained to identify asbestos-containing materials.
Who Can Do an Asbestos Inspection Survey?
Only certified professionals can conduct asbestos surveys. These professionals may include:
- Environmental Consultants: They assess for environmental hazards, like asbestos, and do surveys and tests.
- Asbestos Abatement Contractors: They remove and dispose of asbestos and may do surveys before removal.
- Occupational Hygienists: They look for workplace hazards, including asbestos, and do surveys in commercial and industrial areas.
The Asbestos Survey and Testing Process
Here are the steps of asbestos survey and testing:
- Visual Inspection: Certified professionals inspect the building to find possible asbestos-containing materials.
- Sample Collection: They collect samples to avoid releasing asbestos fibers into the air.
- Laboratory Analysis: The samples go to a lab to check for asbestos and identify its type.
- Asbestos Report: The inspector creates a report detailing asbestos locations, types, and material conditions.
- Management Plan and Recommendations: Based on the report, the inspector advises on how to manage Asbestos. And if required take action to remove it.
Why Is It Important to Test for Asbestos?
Asbestos testing is crucial to safeguard your health. Inhaling microscopic asbestos fibers can cause severe lung diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
However, asbestos testing goes beyond health concerns. It also impacts a property’s value and liability. Moreover, it empowers you to make informed decisions about your property.
What Should You Do If You Find Asbestos?
If you suspect asbestos in your home, don’t touch, move, or clean it. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems. Call a licensed asbestos professional for testing and advice.
Then, they will confirm if it’s asbestos and recommend the next steps, which may include safe removal. Keep records of all inspections, tests, and work performed for your future reference.
Bottom Line
If you suspect asbestos in your home, there’s no need to panic. However, do not touch the material. Instead, call a licensed asbestos professional. They can check if it is asbestos and, crucially, tell you how to handle or remove it safely.
To ensure your safety and protect your investment, keep detailed records of all inspections and work done. This information will be important both for safety reasons and when it comes to your home’s value. Testing for asbestos empowers you to make smart choices about your property.
Find Your New Home With Houzeo
With thousands of property listings, Houzeo.com is one of the biggest property listing sites in the US. Find condos, townhouses, co-ops, and other types of homes for sale on Houzeo.
» Need More Clarity? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if you have asbestos?
Asbestos is invisible to the naked eye. To find out if your home has it, hire a certified professional to inspect and test suspicious materials.
How much does an asbestos inspection cost?
An asbestos inspection typically costs around $482. You can learn more about the factors affecting inspection costs.
Does home inspection include asbestos?
Home inspections usually don't cover asbestos testing. Identifying asbestos requires specialized inspections, as it needs specific expertise and equipment.
