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Many materials normally used in past construction contained hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, and formaldehyde. Testing and analysis of asbestos and other hazardous materials is not within the scope of a home inspection. Rook Home Inspections LLC inspectors are not qualified as experts and are not licensed in New Jersey in any field relating to environmental hazards, hazardous materials, or testing or opinions of such hazards or materials. Therefore, your inspection report only indicates that such materials “might” or “could” be present since laboratory testing—and, in many cases, experts with appropriate licensing and/or experience in New Jersey—is necessary to detect the presence of such substances.
If you want to know for certain whether asbestos or other hazardous materials exist in the structure, consult with a qualified asbestos testing or remediation company, industrial hygienist, hazardous materials specialist, or other qualified expert. Most asbestos was used in construction prior to 1980, although some homes built later than 1980 have asbestos materials since contractors were allowed to use up their existing inventories. |
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that asbestos presents a health hazard if it is “friable” (damaged, crumbling, or in a deteriorated condition that allows the release of fibers into the air). If asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can have serious health effects, which may not appear until many years later. Asbestos can cause asbestosis, a scarring of the lungs that leads to breathing problems and heart failure. It can also cause cancer of the lungs and mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the chest or abdomen lining.
Special regulations exist for the removal and disposal of asbestos, so a permit from a health and safety authority might be required before proceeding, as well as a permit for the disposal of the asbestos material. Since asbestos apparently does not cause any problems if it is not disturbed, in many cases it can remain in place with the owner aware of specific precautions regarding its care and maintenance. Any disturbance of the material, though, should be done by qualified personnel with experience handling asbestos materials. If your home was built before 1985, we recommend that you read Asbestos in the Home, published by the Consumer Products Safety Commission, and Understanding Asbestos, published by the Environmental Working Group. Further guidance is also available from the Environmental Protection Agency. |
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