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The signs of asbestos exposure are often subtle and may not appear for many years, or even decades, after initial contact. This long latency period is one of the primary dangers associated with asbestos.

When symptoms do manifest, they can include:

• Shortness of breath

• A persistent, dry cough

• Chest pain or tightness

• Fatigue

• Wheezing

• Weight loss

• Difficulty swallowing

• A dry, crackling sound from the lungs when breathing

These symptoms are non-specific and can be mistaken for other respiratory conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious diseases as the asbestos fibers cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs. These conditions include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Due to the vague nature of early symptoms, regular medical check-ups are crucial for anyone with a known history of asbestos exposure, particularly in an occupational setting. If you suspect asbestos is present in your home, a professional inspection is recommended.

If you hire a dedicated asbestos inspector near you in addition to your local home inspector, it will cost between $200 and $800. If, however, your general home inspector happens to be certified as an asbestos inspector, they can charge you a smaller fee and tack on the cost to the home inspection. In general, home inspectors do not do physical testing, but will provide a visual assessment so you know what you are working with.

Unfortunately, home inspections do not check for asbestos because of the liability factor involved. That’s why you should hire a trained professional with specialized equipment to test for it. 

They will inspect all areas of the home and take samples of various materials to test. Opting for an asbestos inspection can prevent the risk of exposure to this hazardous material and save on costly repairs that may be required. 

Asbestos is absolutely cancerous. In fact, around 4% of all lung cancer cases are the result of asbestos exposure. This is why we recommend a full, professional removal and cleaning of any asbestos found in your home. If you are unsure whether there is any present, you should call a pro who will inspect your property.