When you’re making plans to renovate or demolish a building, there is one question some people overlook.

Do you need an asbestos inspection first?

Many property owners assume that asbestos inspection is optional and only a requirement for old buildings. But that assumption can be an expensive mistake. To clear things up, this asbestos removal company in Glenview, Illinois is going to explain when an inspection is actually required, and what happens if you try to move forward without one.

What’s the point of an asbestos inspection?

Before the late 1980s, asbestos was found in nearly every building material. You could find it in floor tiles, insulation, ceiling panels, pipe coverings, siding, and even in some types of paint and glue. Builders loved it because it was cheap and very durable.

But then we learned about the dangers of asbestos. Cutting, drilling, or sanding these old building materials can release thousands of microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. These fibers just float around, and if anyone breathes them in, they can get stuck deep in their lungs.

Over time, that can cause serious health issues. But diseases linked to asbestos exposure, like lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, can take 20 to 60 years to show symptoms. Therefore, it remains a serious concern, even decades after asbestos was banned in most new construction materials.

Due to these risks, federal law (EPA NESHAP) requires asbestos inspections before any renovation or demolition work on commercial buildings.

Is it mandatory?

If your renovation or demolition project can disturb any materials that could contain asbestos, you need an inspection first.

Most cities (like those in Cook County) will not even issue a demolition or renovation permit without an asbestos inspection report (or permit/notification) on file. If you try to skip this step, you are asking for trouble.

You could get hit with a stop-work order, fines, and cleanup costs that easily add up to thousands of dollars. In some cases, you might even have to pay for professional air monitoring and additional testing before you can start again.

It is always better to be safe than sorry. If you don’t know if your project requires an inspection, you can always reach out to a licensed asbestos removal company in Glenview, Illinois. They will help you understand what kind of testing (if any) you need before starting your project.

What to expect during an asbestos inspection?

During an asbestos inspection, a licensed inspector takes small samples of materials that may contain asbestos and sends them to a certified laboratory for testing. Once the lab results come back, the inspector prepares a detailed report. The report shows which materials contain asbestos. This information will help you determine the next steps.

If it turns out your building does have asbestos, your local asbestos removal company will explain your options. Sometimes, the safest solution is full removal. Other times, the material can be sealed or enclosed. In some cases, it may even be best to leave it alone. Regardless, an experienced professional will be able to assess the situation and lay out all your options for you.

A licensed asbestos removal company in Glenview, Illinois will know how to handle the situation safely. They can make sure your project moves forward without unnecessary delays.

Looking for an asbestos removal company in Glenview, Illinois?

Are you searching for a dependable asbestos removal company in Glenview, Illinois that can handle your asbestos inspection, testing, and remediation? If so, look no further than Axis Response Group. Contact us today at (773) 427-6811 to schedule a consultation or get a free on-site assessment.