What to do If I find Asbestos?

[Kenny Smith]

Hello BP community!

I get asked this quite a bit with some of my clients, so I figured I'd share my thoughts on it.  If you own a home that was built prior to 1978, there is a good chance there is asbestos somewhere in the home.  They used asbestos back in the day because it was a highly-effective and inexpensive fire-retardant material and thermal/acoustic insulator.  It can be found in materials such as insulation, ceilings, roofing felt, floor tiles, cement, and even roofing shingles.

Realizing this product has proven to cause cancer, it was banned in building materials in 1977.  Although it was banned, there was still product circulating in the market afterwards, so don't be surprised if your 1980 home has traces of it still.

If you run across asbestos, understand most asbestos will not be released in the air, unless it is disturbed.  Before conducting any renovations, it is important to have a licensed asbestos abatement company either test the product, or abate it themselves.  

I have popcorn ceiling in a few of my rentals that more than likely has asbestos in it.  Since I have no plans to remove it anytime soon, I shouldn't be worried about getting it in the air.  Again, unless it is disturbed.  When in doubt, make sure to call a professional to get a second opinion.  

Thanks for reading!