Do the experts recommend removing all asbestos from homes as a precaution?
No. “A lot of people are just totally panicked by it and imagine they can’t breathe or they can smell it,” says Walker. “Generally I tell them if it’s not damaged or offensive to them, the best course is to leave it in place.” Adds Nolan, “The good news is asbestos is not going to be a problem for you if it’s in good shape and you leave it alone.” Q: When should it be removed? A: When it’s in bad shape or needs to be taken out as part of a home-improvement project or remodel. In some cases it can be repaired or encapsulated instead. Q: How can homeowners learn if certain parts of their homes have asbestos? A: They can have it tested. Owners of homes that are going to be demolished must have an asbestos survey performed by a specially trained and certified building inspector. Homeowners doing remodeling or repair jobs may get materials in question tested themselves. There are numerous local firms, listed in the Yellow Pages under Asbestos Consulting and Testing, that do this work. They
