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What To Do If You Find Asbestos

The most important rule: do not panic, and do not touch. Intact asbestos-containing materials that are left undisturbed pose minimal immediate risk. The danger comes from disturbance.

Construction worker wearing protective equipment and respiratory protection mask

Three Scenarios

Scenario 1: I Suspect Asbestos

  1. Stop any work in the area immediately. Do not drill, sand, cut, or disturb the material.
  2. Identify the material and note its location, condition (intact or damaged), and estimated age of the building.
  3. Do not take samples yourself. Collecting samples without professional equipment can release fibers.
  4. If the material is damaged and you see visible dust or crumbling, leave the room and close the door.
  5. Contact a certified asbestos surveyor for a professional assessment. Ask for an accredited lab analysis.

Scenario 2: A Professional Is Coming

  1. Make sure the surveyor is licensed. Ask for their accreditation number before they start.
  2. Keep the area clear. Remove people and pets from the room being assessed.
  3. Ask for a written report with specific material locations, condition ratings, and lab results.
  4. Request a risk classification: is the material 'manage in place', 'encapsulate', or 'remove'?
  5. Keep all reports permanently. Disclose findings to future buyers or tenants.

Scenario 3: Asbestos Has Been Confirmed

  1. Read the surveyor's recommendation carefully: not all confirmed asbestos requires removal.
  2. If the recommendation is 'manage in place', schedule annual inspections and keep records.
  3. If removal is required, hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor — not a general contractor.
  4. Do not re-enter the work area during removal. Ensure the contractor uses proper containment and air monitoring.
  5. Request a clearance certificate after removal, including air quality test results.
  6. Dispose of waste through licensed hazardous waste channels. Never put asbestos debris in regular trash.
Professional inspector or technician conducting building assessment with testing equipment

Never Do These Things

  • Do NOT sand, grind, drill, or cut suspected materials
  • Do NOT use a household vacuum or broom to clean up asbestos debris
  • Do NOT remove asbestos-containing materials yourself — even with a dust mask
  • Do NOT put asbestos waste in regular household garbage
  • Do NOT ignore damaged or crumbling materials in older buildings
  • Do NOT allow children to play near visibly damaged ceiling tiles, walls, or floor tiles in old buildings

When To Call a Professional Immediately

  • You see crumbling, damaged, or water-stained materials in a pre-1990 building
  • You are planning any renovation, drilling, or structural work in a building built before 1990
  • A child or family member has been exposed to visible dust from building materials
  • You are buying, selling, or renting a building constructed before 1990

Use the Risk Checker

Find out if your building may contain asbestos based on its country, age, and type.

Check My Risk

This guide provides general awareness information only. Always consult a certified asbestos professional for your specific situation. ToxinFree is not responsible for actions taken based on this guide.