Asbestos question

[Jack Beaudoin]

If a two unit rental has exterior siding with asbestos material in it would you still buy the property? My understanding is that I can just go over it with vinyl siding around the house and not have a problem.

[Jim Adrian]

Yes I would still buy it.  Asbestos is a very durable product, too bad it now causes health issues.  I asbestos shingles on my rental and they are going on 80 yrs old.   As long and the product is not friable then you are good to go.

Make sure you disclose the asbestos in the lease.  I would add lead paint as well.   There is EPA form and pamphlet to give the tenant.  I would guess you have asbestos in other areas of the house and don't know it.  Asbestos was used in adhesives likes white ductwork tape,  9" sq vinyl tile and brown perlite insulation for examples.