Understanding Asbestos and Its Risks

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively used in construction materials, such as insulation, flooring, and ceiling tiles, until the late 20th century. Its popularity was primarily due to its fire resistance, durability, and insulating properties. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers, when released into the air and inhaled, can cause severe health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos and Renovations

During renovations or any activities that involve drilling, cutting, or demolishing materials, there is a significant risk of disturbing asbestos-containing materials. When these materials are damaged or broken, microscopic asbestos fibers can be released into the air, making them easily inhalable. It is crucial to note that asbestos-containing materials do not pose an immediate threat if they are intact and undisturbed. However, once they are disturbed, the health risks escalate.

The Importance of Asbestos Testing

Given the potential dangers associated with asbestos, it is crucial to determine whether your older home contains this hazardous material before commencing any renovation work. Asbestos testing involves taking samples of suspect materials and sending them to a certified laboratory for analysis. Trained professionals collect these samples following strict safety protocols to prevent fiber release during the sampling process.

By conducting thorough asbestos testing, you can identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials in your home. This knowledge allows you to make informed decisions about how to handle these materials during your renovation project. It is important to remember that visual inspection alone cannot confirm the presence of asbestos, as it is often impossible to identify asbestos-containing materials without specialized testing.

The Role of Professional Abatement

If asbestos is detected during testing, it is essential to engage the services of a professional asbestos abatement company. Attempting to remove or handle asbestos-containing materials yourself can lead to fiber release and put your health, as well as the health of others, at risk. Professional asbestos abatement companies have the expertise, specialized equipment, and knowledge to safely remove and dispose of asbestos materials in accordance with government regulations.

During the abatement process, professionals will implement containment measures to isolate the work area, ensuring that asbestos fibers do not spread throughout the property. They will use appropriate personal protective equipment, follow strict procedures, and conduct air monitoring to ensure the effective removal of asbestos fibers. After completion, they will provide documentation certifying that the asbestos has been safely and thoroughly removed.

Conclusion

When embarking on renovations in an older home or property, asbestos testing is an essential step to safeguard the health and well-being of yourself and those around you. Remember, asbestos is not dangerous unless it is disrupted, but when it is, it can pose significant health risks. By hiring a professional asbestos abatement company to handle any identified asbestos-containing materials, you can ensure the safe and successful completion of your renovation project while protecting yourself and your loved ones from the potential dangers of asbestos exposure.

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1. Were structural alterations done on this property?
2. Were the necessary permits pulled.
3. Were the renovations done by qualified contractors and licensed tradespeople?
   Unfortunately, though, people rarely know what to ask and become mesmerized by nice countertops and some fresh paint.

What are the things to look for when visiting a “Fully renovated” house

POOR WORKMANSHIP

The workmanship is one of the tell-tale signs that this is just a fast flip or it’s done by someone who is a true professional. Pay particular attention to the fine details.

• Were they done in a sloppy and rushed manner?

• Are baseboards installed flush with proper finished details?

• Are tile floors uneven or not level in areas?

• Does the drywall finishes have many visible blemishes or imperfections?

• Are cabinets installed poorly with doors or drawers uneven?

Those are some of just the cosmetic details that sometimes go unnoticed when walking through a home. Next time you are viewing a property, pay close attention!

MECHANICAL SYSTEMS NOT COMPLETED BY LICENSED TRADES

A lot of times during the renovation process what will happen is that the contractor or DIYer (Even worse) with limited knowledge in plumbing and electrical,  will attempt to complete the work themselves to save money.  These defects will go unnoticed to the untrained eye but to a qualified inspector, it will be a red flag of what may be concealed.  For example, we often notice incorrect plumbing traps, missing P-Traps, venting issues or DIY materials in use in multiple locations.  These are clear indicators that the contractor was doing the work that a licensed trade should be doing.

Electrical work should always be completed by a licensed electrician.  Incorrectly wiring in an electrical panel or outdated wiring in an older home could be a very costly mistake resulting in serious injury.  All too often we see incorrectly terminated live electrical wiring that could very easily result in electrocution.  Typically this will only be identified when covers are removed or with the proper tools.  This is the biggest reason why you should never waive a home inspection.  Repairs here can be costly.

FLIPS ARE LIPSTICK AND MASCARA

When a home is listed soon after it was purchased you have to call a spade a spade.  The purchaser is limiting holding time on the home so as to maximize profit.  Take note of the materials being used in the renovation.  Flooring will typically be vinyl as it is cost-efficient.  Paint will usually be a neutral colour, kitchens and bathrooms and/or kitchens with usually have a quick refreshing, new tile, paint, etc.  If you have a chance to look at the mechanical systems, they will be outdated or nearing the end of their service lives.  These items will all be identified on an inspection of the property.  It is important to ensure that the inspection is a complete inspection and not a walkthrough.  A complete inspection does not cut corners and will systematically address each component of the home in a detailed report.  Take your time and review the report in its entirety as it not only references defects but maintenance items, updates and improvements a home should have over time.  Purchasing a home is the largest investment of your life.  Think of your home like your vehicle.  You have to ensure your car is safe to drive on the road, so your home should be safe to live in.

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