5 Questions to Ask About Asbestos Testing

If you live in an older home and think it might contain asbestos, the best way to confirm your suspicions is by hiring an asbestos testing professional. But before the pro gets to work, they’ll need to understand a few things about your home and why you need asbestos testing. Here are some of the asbestos questions they’ll likely ask during your first conversation.

1. Why do you need asbestos testing?

When you call a pro to check for asbestos, they’ll want to know what prompted you to reach out and request an asbestos test. Maybe you damaged part of your decades-old vinyl flooring, and you’re concerned it could contain asbestos. Or perhaps you want to test for asbestos in a popcorn ceiling before replacing it with a more modern style. Either way, explaining the test's purpose will help the asbestos company understand the scope and urgency of your project.

2. When was your home built? 

Asbestos was used in homes starting in the 1930s. Although its use significantly declined by the late 1980s, houses built before then could still contain asbestos. For that reason, it’s helpful to provide your home’s age when speaking with an asbestos inspector near you. If you have an older home, it’s also good to inform your contractor about any previous renovations you’ve completed.

3. How big is your home? 

Your home’s size will also impact the cost of asbestos testing. Larger properties often have more material to inspect than smaller houses, so they’re generally more time-consuming (and expensive) to test. Plus, since bigger homes have more space and materials that could contain asbestos, they might require multiple tests.

4. When would you like to complete the asbestos testing? 

There are two asbestos testing phases: collection and lab testing. An asbestos testing pro can usually complete the collection phase in a day, but it may take several days to get the results from the lab. 

If you need an urgent test (for example, if you think you’ve been exposed to asbestos in your home), let the pro know. That way, they can prioritize your project and visit your home ASAP. In the meantime, seek medical advice and stay away from the affected area.

5. What’s your budget?

On average, asbestos testing costs $230 to $780, but the price you pay will depend on multiple factors, including the type of test, your home’s size and accessibility, and your location. 

If your home does have asbestos that needs to be managed, the asbestos abatement method will also influence your costs. Depending on the condition and location of the asbestos, you may be able to choose between asbestos removal and encapsulation. Removal is more expensive, running between $5 and $20 per square foot. Encapsulation—which involves sealing the material to prevent it from releasing asbestos fibers—is less expensive, averaging $2 to $6 per square foot.