Get matched with top asbestos removal specialists in Shady Spring, WV

You shouldn’t see a difference in your home’s value from your local property assessor if you have asbestos. Does asbestos affect home value when you are selling the home, though? If you are planning to sell the home, most jurisdictions require you to legally disclose the presence of asbestos to any buyer. Most buyers would have reservations about purchasing a home with asbestos, so they may offer less for the home. If you hire a pro to completely remove the asbestos, you do not have to disclose to buyers that the home once had asbestos.

In most cases, homeowners insurance doesn't cover asbestos abatement. Insurance policies frequently exclude coverage for pollutants, contaminants, and hazardous materials, which include asbestos. It's considered a pre-existing condition in homes built before its ban, so removal is seen as a maintenance expense rather than an insurable loss. There may be an exception if the asbestos-containing materials are disturbed due to a covered event, such as fire or storm damage. Some policies may cover the abatement as a part of those repairs.

In most cities, it isn’t legal to cover asbestos tile. This is because it’s difficult for the average homeowner to know if they’re causing fibers to become airborne. While there is a method of sealing the asbestos in place—called encapsulation—this needs to be done by a pro, and isn’t appropriate for all situations. 

You can cover asbestos siding with another type of siding, such as vinyl, however, this may not be the best option. Covering the asbestos siding may disturb it, releasing fibers into the air. The covered siding can also be disturbed at a later date, such as by a new homeowner who is unaware of its presence.

If you decide to cover the siding, be sure to work with a professional and follow any local building codes and requirements. It may be the case that removing the asbestos siding is the better option, rather than covering it over.