Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction materials due to its heat resistance and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a result, regulations were put in place to limit the use of asbestos in buildings.
If you are a homeowner living in an older home, it is important to be aware of the potential presence of asbestos in your property. One way to determine if there is asbestos present is by conducting an asbestos survey.
An asbestos survey involves inspecting your home for any materials that may contain asbestos. This can include insulation, flooring tiles, ceiling tiles, and pipe insulation. The survey will identify any areas where asbestos is present and assess the condition of these materials.
Before scheduling an asbestos survey, there are a few steps homeowners should take to prepare for the inspection. First, make sure you have all relevant information about your home available for the surveyor. This includes building plans, renovation records, and any previous reports on the presence of asbestos.
Next, clear out any clutter or obstacles that may impede access to areas where asbestos may be present. This source includes moving furniture away from walls and clearing out storage spaces such as attics or basements.
It is also important to inform all residents of the home about the upcoming survey so they can plan accordingly. Pets should be kept away from areas being inspected during the survey.
On the day of the survey, ensure that all doors and windows are unlocked so that the surveyor can easily access all areas of your home. It may also be helpful to provide them with a floor plan or layout of your property to aid in their inspection.
During the inspection process, it is important for homeowners to cooperate with the surveyor and provide any additional information they may request. They may ask questions about when certain renovations were done or if any repairs have been made recently.
Once the survey has been completed, you will receive a report detailing any findings regarding the presence of asbestos in your home. If no asbestos is found or if it is determined that it poses no immediate risk, no further action may be necessary.
However, if significant amounts of asbestos are detected or if it poses a health hazard due to its deteriorating condition or disturbance potential (such as during renovations), steps will need to be taken for proper removal and disposal by certified professionals following local regulations.