Are You Buying A House With Asbestos? - Things You Need To Know

Buying a house is a major investment decision. Along with the property's location, size and condition, another important point of consideration is the presence of asbestos in different house locations. As evident, asbestos was a common construction material in the early 1940s, so if the house you’re planning to buy was constructed before or during that era, the presence of asbestos is inevitable.

Asbestos might be present in large quantities, especially in the roofing shingles, pipes, ventilation ducts, fences and cement sheetings. As proved repeatedly, asbestos is a harmful material. Significant exposure to asbestos for a prolonged period can cause mesothelioma. So what should be your decision?

Get the property surveyed for asbestos before making the purchase decision. Make sure to hire professionals for asbestos removal in Staines. They use protective equipment and also follow the safe asbestos removal process.

Can you buy a house with asbestos in it?

Asbestos removal is necessary whether now or later; you’ll have to finish this job. However, buyers sometimes buy the house and avoid making immediate asbestos removals. Is it a feasible decision? Under the following considerations, you can delay the asbestos removal process.

• If you cannot bear the immediate asbestos removal costs for the complete removal of the asbestos from your property.
• If, after inspection, the professionals suggest that the asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and will not crumble into dust soon, then you can delay the process.
• If you’re not planning on renovating or refurbishing the house for the next 5 to 6 years, then the asbestos-laden parts remain unharmed, and removal can be delayed.

How do you manage the risks of asbestos in your home?

While living in a house with asbestos can be risky, every homeowner should know how to manage the same until a professional removal process occurs.

• Do not disturb the parts of the house where asbestos is present.
• Ensure that the parts of the roof shingles or pipes with high asbestos content do not crumble into dust, as it increases the chances of air contamination.
• For asbestos present in the roof, install a false ceiling to prevent the direct exposure of asbestos to the air inside the house.
• If asbestos parts of the house get damaged, call the professionals immediately to remove them.
• Do not try the DIY asbestos removal process, as it endangers the extent of contamination.

Asbestos testing is important for all types of property. Getting rid of the same before you buy or shift to the house is always advisable to avoid any medical issues. Contact professionals for asbestos testing and removal services.