What You Should Know About Asbestos Inspection


Asbestos Inspection

An Asbestos inspection is made to give the client a much better understanding of the physical condition of the structure than would otherwise be known. To achieve this, the inspector conducts a visual inspection of the home and its systems. Typical homes take 2-3 hours to be inspected for asbestos. When the client approaches the inspector, the latter often presents a pre-inspection agreement to be signed by the client, followed by payment. A good inspector then gives the client an overview of the asbestos inspection process and invites the client to accompany him.

Though the order may vary, the inspector should at least visually inspect the foundation, plumbing and electrical systems, heating and air conditioning, interiors, attic, chimney, kitchen, bathrooms, garage and some appliances as well.

An asbestos inspection is conducted to make sure that these materials are not harmful. Generally, materials in good condition will not release asbestos fibers thus it will not need an inspection for asbestos. There is no danger unless fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs.

If asbestos material shows signs of wear or damage, during the asbestos inspection like such as tearing, abrasion, or water damage, or it is exposed to hitting, rubbing, or extreme vibration or air flow you should have it repaired or removed by a professional. The asbestos inspection usually takes place under two conditions: pre-sale and pre-purchase.

Before you put your house on the market for sale, you may want to seriously consider the benefits of having it asbestos inspected. Without a doubt, this is the best time to have your home inspected for asbestos.

When you are willing to spend thousands of dollars to purchase a house it would go a long way to spend another few hundreds to have your home inspected for asbestos as well. Exercising this right is definitely in your best interest. You may prefer to have the seller get the asbestos inspection and repairs done, or you may negotiate a price cut for the same. The choice is yours.

Given below are the methods that are involved in asbestos inspection: 1) The operator takes note of the available documents describing the building. 2) He then attests of the presence or absence of asbestos during his asbestos inspection. In case of doubt he takes an asbestos sample, for a further inspection, to an approved laboratory. 3) The operator evaluates the state of conservation of the asbestos containing products and grades them according to asbestos inspection norms. 4) The operator draws up a report of the asbestos inspection.

Response actions of an asbestos inspected property, as defined by the AHERA rule, fall into five main categories:

1. Operations and Maintenance Program 2. Repair 3. Encapsulation 4. Enclosure 5. Removal

The licensed asbestos inspector prepares a written statement, regarding the asbestos inspection, which must include:

· Verification that the building was inspected for asbestos according to the requirements of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act · The date of the asbestos inspection · Signature of the licensed asbestos inspector and management planner, including copies of licenses regarding the asbestos inspection

If, during inspection, asbestos is found or assumed, the statement shall include:

· The location of any significant hazard areas · Verification of completion of the management plan · Response actions recommended by the inspector and · Verification that response actions have been completed

So go ahead right now and get an asbestos inspection done for your home!