Asbestos

[Anthony Nici]

Hi everyone. I have been a member of BP for a few months now and I have come across a problem. My bid was accepted on a home that was built in the 50's. The inspector said there is asbestos in the 9x9 tiles in the basement but was of no concern.  Just the word asbestos concerns me. Since it would be a rental, my first rental,  I am concerned about the renters and children that would most likely be playing in the basement. The inspector also mentioned there is probably asbestos behind the siding. Any thoughts on this is greatly appreciated.

[Craig Smith]

Any house built/renovated before the 80's is likely filled with it in the wierdest places. From tiles (floor, ceiling, walls) to insulation, to paint, cement, siding  and sheetrock/plaster to name a few. They put it in vinyl floor tiles for some reason. The main problem is it going airborne. If you paint it (encapsulate it) and it's solid you should be ok. If you need to work on any old stuff treat it all as having lead / asbestos. You need to evaluate how much your going to disturb. Painting old tiles should be fine. It's when you need to remove them for some reason you need to be cautious.

Always wonder why you don't see old houses encapsulated as they are being demolished. Considering how much is in those old homes and the dust it kicks up.

P.S. It still finds its way into modern houses - Got a glass stove top? Dynamic Earth or whatever name they use today. It's in there!