Found Asbestos


in Your Property? HERE’S WHAT TO DO!


Tim Jackson, Partnership Director JJ&S Environmental Services


“ASBESTOS EXPOSURE IS DANGEROUS AND CAN LEAD TO SEVERE HEALTH ISSUES, INCLUDING LUNG CANCER AND MESOTHELIOMA.”


If you’re a property manager or homeowner, discovering asbestos in your building can be daunting. But don’t worry— there are clear steps you can take to manage this situation safely. Asbestos, once a popular building material for its fire- resistant properties, is now known to pose significant health risks. If your association is planning to conduct significant renovation, demolition, or repairs of walls, floors, or ceilings, an asbestos test may be required under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1403.


In this article, we’ll guide you through understanding the different types of asbestos, where you can commonly find it, and what to do if you discover or even suspect its presence in your property.


Types of Asbestos


Asbestos comes in several forms, each with its own characteristics and uses. Knowing these types can help you identify potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property.


Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Most commonly used in buildings. Found in roofs, ceilings, walls, and floors.


Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Typically used in cement sheets and pipe insulation. Known for its strong heat-resistant properties.


Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Found in steam engine insulation and spray-on coatings. Has thin fibers that are more easily inhaled.


12 September | October 2024


Tremolite, Actinolite, and Anthophyllite: Less common but still hazardous. Found in some vermiculite insulation, talc products, and certain paints.


Where Can You Find Asbestos in Your Property?


Asbestos was widely used in many building materials. Here are some common places you might find it:


• Floor Tiles: Older vinyl, linoleum, or composite tiles. • Popcorn Ceilings: Common in homes built before the 1980s. • Drywall and Joint Compound: Especially in homes built before 1980.


• Pipes and Ducts: Insulation around pipes, boilers, and ducts. • Stucco: Both interior and exterior surfaces. • Roof Shingles: Asbestos-cement shingles were popular for their durability.


• Textured Paints and Patching Compounds: Often used on walls and ceilings.


Dos and Don’ts When You Suspect Asbestos


When dealing with asbestos, it’s important to follow best practices to minimize risk.


Dos: • Do leave it alone: If the material is in good condition, it’s best not to disturb it.


• Do get it tested: Hire a certified asbestos professional to test suspect materials.


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