Asbestos Testing
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that can be positively identified only with a special type of microscope. There are several types of asbestos fibers. In the past, asbestos was added to a variety of products to strengthen them and to provide heat insulation and fire resistance.
Hire a professional trained to handle specific products containing asbestos. Asbestos professionals can conduct home inspections, take samples of suspected material, assess its condition and advise as to what corrections are needed and who is qualified to make these corrections.
If the asbestos material is in good shape and will not be disturbed, do nothing! If it is a problem, there are two types of corrections: repair and removal. Repair usually involves either sealing or covering asbestos material. Sealing, or encapsulation, involves treating the material with a sealant that either binds the asbestos fibers together or coats the material so fibers are not released. Pipe, furnace, and boiler insulation can sometimes be repaired in this way. This should be done only be a professional trained to handle asbestos safely.
$250 per room
Lead Based Paint Testing
If you are planning to buy or rent a home built before 1978, it is important to test for lead-based paint. Lead from paint, paint chips, and dust can pose serious health hazards.
Sellers must disclose known information on lead-based paint or lead-based paint hazards before selling a house. Real estate sales contracts must include a specific warning statement about lead-based paint. Buyers have up to 10 days to check for lead. Landlords must disclose known information on lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards before leases can take effect. Leases must include a specific warning statement about lead-based paint. If undertaking renovations, repairs, or painting (RRP) projects in your pre-1978 home or apartment, hire a professional to do the proper testing.
$150 per room
