Asbestos in an Older Home: When to Leave It Alone and When to Call a Pro

Understanding Asbestos in Your Home

Asbestos is a group of minerals that were once used in many building materials. It was popular because it resists heat and fire. You might find it in older homes built before a certain time. If your home is older, it could have asbestos in things like insulation, floor tiles, or pipe wraps.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that asbestos-containing materials are not likely to cause health problems if they are not damaged or disturbed. The danger comes when these materials are damaged. When they are cut, sanded, drilled, or scraped, tiny asbestos fibers can be released into the air. Breathing in these fibers can be harmful.

It is very important to know that you generally cannot tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it. Unless it is clearly labeled, you cannot be sure without testing. Do not try to guess or identify it yourself.

When to Leave Asbestos Alone

The best thing to do for asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition is often to leave them alone. The EPA states that if these materials are not damaged or disturbed, they are not likely to be a health risk. This means if the material is not crumbling, breaking, or being moved, it is usually safest to let it be.

For example, if you have old vinyl floor tiles that are intact and not breaking apart, or insulation around pipes that is fully covered and not exposed, these might be best left undisturbed. Covering them or leaving them alone can prevent fibers from being released.

When to Call a Professional

You must call a trained and accredited asbestos professional if you have asbestos-containing materials that are damaged or if you plan to disturb them. This includes any materials that are:

• Damaged: If you see materials crumbling, breaking, fraying, or showing signs of wear.
• Disturbed: If something has already been cut, sanded, drilled, or scraped, and you suspect it contains asbestos.
• Planned for disturbance: If you are planning a renovation or repair that would involve cutting, sanding, drilling, or scraping materials that might contain asbestos.

Because you cannot identify asbestos by eye, and disturbing it can release harmful fibers, never try to remove or repair asbestos yourself. The EPA states that removal must only be done by a trained and accredited asbestos professional. This is a job for experts who have special training and equipment to do it safely.

How to Find and Work with an Asbestos Professional

When you need to deal with asbestos, finding the right professional is key. Here’s a checklist to help you choose and work with one:

• Look for accreditation: The EPA says that removal must be done by a trained and accredited asbestos professional. Ask to see proof of their accreditation. This shows they have the specific training needed for asbestos work.
• Check for licensing and insurance: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises hiring only contractors who are licensed and insured. Check with your state or county government to confirm their license is valid. Ask the contractor for proof of their insurance. This protects you if something goes wrong.
• Get a written contract: The FTC advises always getting a clear and concise written agreement. Even if your state does not require it, a contract helps everyone understand the project. Make sure it covers:
  • Who will do the work.
  • What specific work will be done (e.g., testing, removal, repair).
  • Where the work will take place in your home.
  • When the work will start and finish.
  • The cost of the entire project.
• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about their process, how they will keep your home safe, and what you should expect before, during, and after the work. A good professional will be happy to explain everything clearly.

What to Expect from a Professional

An asbestos professional will first assess your situation. This might involve taking samples of materials to test for asbestos in a lab. If asbestos is found and needs to be removed or repaired, they will use specialized methods to contain the area and prevent fibers from spreading. They follow strict safety rules to protect your home and everyone in it.

They have the right tools and training to safely handle, remove, and dispose of asbestos-containing materials. This ensures that the job is done correctly and safely, reducing any health risks.

When this advice may not fit

This advice is for homeowners dealing with potential asbestos in their own homes. If you are a landlord, own a commercial property, or are involved in large-scale demolition, you may have different regulations and requirements. In these cases, you should seek guidance from specialized legal or environmental consultants who can advise on specific compliance needs. If you are ever unsure about the condition of asbestos in your home, or if you suspect extensive damage, always consult with a qualified professional.