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| | Asbestos is hazardous when airborne; if inhaled, tiny particles can cause lung or stomach cancer. Details about where asbestos might be found are provided by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Tearing asbestos releases tiny airborne particles, so it's best to cover or otherwise control asbestos rather than removing it. If it's completely intact and in good condition, asbestos is not dangerous. Visit BetterHomesandGardens.com for an overview. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Removal costs vary widely depending on circumstances. Removing a 10-foot section of asbestos pipe insulation could be $400-$650. Some contractors have a minimum fee of $1,500-$3,000, no matter how small the job is. And a complete removal in a 1,500 square foot home with asbestos everywhere--walls, floors, ceilings, attic, roof, pipes--could be as high as $20,000-$30,000.
- Have an independent inspector do an initial asbestos inspection; the White Lung Association says this costs $400-$800 for an average 1,500 square foot house, including lab fees; and a re-inspection at the end of the project can be $200-$400. If lab work is done separately, a sample analysis averages $25-$75.
What should be included: | - One company should inspect your home and make recommendations about containing or removing the asbestos; a separate firm should do the actual work; the first company will do a follow-up inspection. The work site must be sealed off from the rest of the house and clearly marked as a hazard area. The Environmental Protection Agency provides details
- Do-it-yourself asbestos removal is discouraged because improper handling creates a real hazard. If you're determined, check with your state and local health department for training programs. To see what's involved, NaturalHandyman.com gives step-by-step details for removing an asbestos-laden "popcorn" ceiling. Note: If you pay someone to remove asbestos, even a family member, they have to be a trained asbestos professional.
Shopping for asbestos removal: | - TheBlueBook.com lists asbestos consultants and contractors. Get cost estimates from several companies. Ask for (and check) references, and see if there are complaints with the Better Business Bureau, your local air pollution control board and your state's worker safety agency.
- Confirm (in writing) that the inspection will include a complete visual examination and lab analysis of carefully collected samples, plus frequent site visits to ensure the work is being done properly. A list of accredited laboratories is provided by Environment, Health and Safety Online.
- The written contract should list details of the work and cleanup, and any federal, state and local regulations that must be followed, including notification and disposal procedures. To find out what these are, contact your state and local health departments and the EPA regional office. When done, the contractor should provide a written statement saying all required procedures were followed.
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Article updated November 2006 |
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