Asbestos is a mineral fiber. It 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. We do not specifically test for asbestos. During an inspection we visually check for any signs of asbestos. Typical uses for asbestos in older homes include insulation wrapping on heating pipes, roof shingles and floor tiles. If it is suspected that there could possibly be asbestos it will be noted on the report and the appropriate professional will be referred for further evaluation and/or remediation. Even if asbestos is in your home, this is usually NOT a serious problem. The mere presence of asbestos in a home or a building is not hazardous. The danger is that asbestos materials may become damaged over time. Damaged asbestos may release asbestos fibers and become a health hazard.
