Who to Call to Check for Asbestos

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

When considering who to call to check for asbestos, your best option is to hire an asbestos testing company or an environmental consultant. These professionals have the proper training, certifications, and equipment to accurately identify asbestos and advise on safe handling. Choosing a qualified pro reduces your risk and ensures results you can trust for your family and home.

Benefits of Hiring an Asbestos Testing Company to Check for Asbestos

Hiring an asbestos testing company is the most reliable way to detect asbestos in your home. Licensed testers use specialized tools, follow strict safety protocols, and know where to look for potential hazards. Accurate results from a professional help you make decisions with confidence and keep your household safe.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring these pros:

• Professionals use certified labs for analysis.

• Testing companies can check multiple surfaces in one visit.

• Testers know where asbestos is commonly found.

• They use personal protective equipment for safety.

• Pros recognize signs of asbestos in different materials.

• Accurate identification reduces the risk of false results.

• They provide guidance if test results are positive.

• Testing companies avoid exposing your household to fibers.

• Licensed pros comply with regulations for sampling.

• Results are delivered quickly, usually in one to three days.

Can I Hire an Environmental Consultant to Check for Asbestos?

Environmental consultants are another qualified option for checking for asbestos in your home. These professionals are trained to safely gather samples and submit them to certified labs, ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental standards. They provide detailed reports and can advise you on the next steps if asbestos is detected. 

Environmental consultants are particularly suited for more complex or large-scale inspections, though they may be more expensive and less available for urgent situations. If remediation is needed, an asbestos abatement company should be called for safe removal. 

If you need help with removal, consider hiring an asbestos abatement professional near you to ensure the job is done safely and in compliance with regulations.

How Do Pros Check for Asbestos?

The process for checking asbestos begins with a thorough inspection by a trained technician. First, the technician visually inspects any materials that may contain asbestos. Physical samples are then collected from these materials, and air and dust samples may also be gathered to detect microscopic fibers. 

All collected samples are sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. Results are available within one to three business days. If asbestos is found, the professional advises you on the safest next steps and any required remediation.

How Much Does Checking for Asbestos Cost?

The cost of checking for asbestos depends on whether you opt for a DIY kit or hire a professional. High-quality DIY kits cost about $100, but they require you to mail samples and may be less accurate. 

Professional asbestos testing companies charge an average of $480, with costs varying based on the number of surfaces that need testing. Professional testing is more reliable and can cover multiple areas in a single visit, providing peace of mind and thorough results. No per-hour rates or further breakdowns are provided in the source content.