Kevin,

I am not the expert, but for the most part two sources of asbestos that may be present in a home are in siding materials on the exterior of the house and/or the infamous "popcorn" ceiling. With either one, the removal pros will test the material first and then let you know if there is enough asbestos to warrant extra caution (special gear to protect workers and more cost) to remove or repair it.

A local professional who can test for you -

Linda Kincaid, M.P.H., C.I.H.
Industrial Hygiene Services
455 Zaton Ave.
San Jose, CA 95117-1573
(408) 998-4642

Her web site:
http://indoorairanswers.com/default.aspx

Good luck,
CJ

Hi, Kevin

Go to EPA's site where you can get all kinds of good information, including resources you can check out. Here's the link http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/.

Here's what it says: "If you wish to obtain more information on asbestos, EPA maintains a listing of asbestos resources available to the public. If you would like to locate an asbestos contact, EPA maintains a listing of federal and state asbestos contacts."

So you may want to start there.

Good luck.

Hi Kevin:

I use a local company who specializes in Asbestos for the specific inspection. They will come to the house and take samples from various locactions and perform different levels of testings as deemed appropriate; following EPA standards and procedures.

I have found them very responsive and thorough.

http://www.asbestoscontrolcenter.com/ourqualifications/

Sylvia

You will definitely want to hire an inspector who is trained to take samples (safely) and send them off to a lab for analysis. I have referred past clients to National Analytical Laboratories - http://www.nal1.com and 800-774-9555.

Here is a contact who can tell you. She has great information on her web site as well.

http://indoorairanswers.com/asbestos.aspx

Linda Kincaid, M.P.H., C.I.H.
Industrial Hygiene Services
455 Zaton Ave.
San Jose, CA 95117-1573
(408) 998-4642


CJ

Use a certified or licensed inspector and have them take small samples (with the homeowners permission) to be tested. That really is the only way to be sure. Usually if the asbestos is contained, like in floor tile and its in good shape your may be advised to leave it alone. On the other hand if the pipes in the basement are covered with what generally looks like asbestos and its falling off and in bad shape, then you might be advised to have it removed professionally. Once removed an air quality test is performed.