What this inspection helps you understand
Asbestos was used across Canadian construction for decades and is still present in many buildings put up before 1990. Undisturbed material in good condition is generally left alone. The risk arises when it is cut, sanded, drilled or demolished, which is why the question needs answering before renovation work starts, not after.
What is included?
The survey covers accessible areas and the materials most likely to contain asbestos in a building of its age and construction. It commonly includes:
- Walkthrough of accessible areas with a review of the building’s age and construction
- Identification of suspect materials such as insulation, flooring, ceiling texture and board products
- Assessment of each material’s condition and how likely it is to be disturbed
- Controlled sampling of suspect materials using appropriate precautions
- Accredited third-party laboratory analysis with documented chain of custody
- Written report listing materials, locations, condition and laboratory results
Who is this inspection for?
- Owners planning a renovation, demolition or mechanical upgrade
- Buyers of properties built before 1990
- Commercial owners and managers meeting pre-construction obligations
- Anyone who has found vermiculite insulation or damaged pipe wrap
How long does it take?
Most residential surveys are completed in a single visit; commercial buildings depend on size and the number of materials sampled. Laboratory turnaround is confirmed when the scope is agreed, and the written report follows once results are returned.
What happens after the inspection?
The report identifies each sampled material, where it is, what condition it is in and what the laboratory found. Where asbestos is confirmed, the report supports the next decision — leaving material undisturbed and managing it in place, or engaging a licensed abatement contractor before the work that would disturb it goes ahead.
