One of the leading concerns when selling or buying an older home is if asbestos is present. Asbestos is well known to cause cancer and other respiratory problems. When you want to sell or buy a home, it is always beneficial to have the home professionally inspected. There are many of aspects of the home a home inspector looks for, including asbestos. JMark Inspections will share what happens when an inspector finds asbestos and what a seller or buyer should do if it happens.
What is Asbestos & Where is it Found?
Asbestos is a mineral that is mined from the earth. It was widely used for its natural properties to repel fire and is a good fire retardant. During the 1940’s through the 1970’s asbestos was widely used in residential and commercial buildings. Following are some of the common materials used in homes and buildings that contain asbestos.
• Vermiculite Insulation
• Floor Tile
• Acoustic Ceiling Tile
• Heating Duct Tape (White Tape)
• Boiler and Boiler Pipe Insulation
• Asbestos Cement Siding
• Popcorn Ceiling Texture
• Glues (Used for Under Flooring)
Asbestos Dangers
Asbestos is now known to be hazardous to humans and their health. Tiny abrasive fibers in the asbestos are inhaled and trapped inside the lungs. The asbestos can cause lung tissue damage and lead to lung cancer or mesothelioma. If your home was built anywhere from the 1940’s through the 1970’s, it is essential to have the home inspected. A professional inspector can identify asbestos in a home and be able to warn the seller or buyers. Often the inspector will recommend further testing to confirm if asbestos is indeed inside the home.
What to Do if Asbestos is Discovered when Buying or Selling a Home
If you are selling or buying a home that has asbestos, you will of course want it out. For those who are selling a home, before you put the home on open market, you will want to remove the asbestos or consider selling your home for less and make sure the presence of asbestos is made known. This can reduce potential buyers and your home will sell for less. To get the full value and ensure a quicker sale of the home, it is recommended to have the asbestos removed. If you are buying a home that has tested positive for asbestos, you will not get your occupancy license right away. You will need to take the responsibility for removing the asbestos. Often you will need to do a bit of renovations and will need the home inspected and proven safe. When removing asbestos you will need a qualified asbestos renovation contractor to ensure the asbestos is properly removed. Additionally, the contractor should provide a report. Each state, city, and county will have their own regulations for asbestos renovations and removal. If you are selling or buying a home with positive asbestos, seek out state, city or county regulations.
Residential & Commercial Buyer & Seller Home Inspections in Pasadena, Pearland, League City, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Conroe, Friendswood & Greater Houston, Texas
If you are selling or buying a home that is built any time after the 1980’s, make sure to have the home inspected. Older homes can often turn up asbestos, electrical and plumbing problems. To be confidant when selling or buying a home and you want a home inspection, contact JMark Inspections and schedule our services today.