Asbestos Inspections

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral-based insulative material used in older homes built prior to 1980. Asbestos was commonly present in many 20th-century building materials. If the material is in good condition and left undisturbed, it shouldn’t cause a significant safety risk. However, if it is damaged, deteriorating or friable, the material may crumble into a powder releasing asbestos fibres into the air which – when inhaled – can pose a safety risk for the residents.

Asbestos has been known to cause lung cancer if exposed to large quantities, or small quantities over a long period of time. Sadly, one of the most malevolent aspects of the asbestos-related illness is the extremely long period between initial exposure and the manifestation of the first symptoms of the illness. Asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer are the 3 most common asbestos-related illnesses and incubate for decades after exposure before presenting themselves.

Health Canada recommends homeowners reduce their potential for exposure to asbestos by hiring a professional to test for asbestos prior to purchasing an older home. Since many people plan to renovate a home once purchased, it is important to know if it contains asbestos prior to commencing renovation work, especially if you are an avid DIY’er. Knowing precisely what you are dealing with prevents the risk of asbestos exposure/contamination when the deconstruction/tear down phase begins.

Why Have an Asbestos Test Done in Your Home?

Many attics in older houses contain vermiculite-based insulation which MAY contain asbestos. It is impossible to tell if building material contains asbestos by visual inspection. A sample of the material must be sent out to a laboratory for testing. Many basements in older homes have asbestos insulation around boilers and boiler pipes.

Foundation & Up Home Inspections have many years of experience testing for Asbestos and can accurately assess if there is a threat in the home. The Asbestos test report can give you peace of mind, or a plan of action to have it removed for your maximal health and safety.

Please note that Septic Inspections are done in addition to a Home Inspection.
Septic Inspections are not done independently of a Home Inspection.

Contact Foundation & Up Home Inspection Today!

Contacting Foundation & Up Home Inspection is easy and can be done in a variety of ways. You may book an inspection quickly and easily online. Call us today at 613-720-1462. Email us at chris@foundationandup.ca, or use our Contact Us form on our website.