Two tacks taken with homeowners on asbestos issue
ASK THE INSPECTOR
Question: Some inspection reports refer to building materials as "possibly containing asbestos" and others state "the only way you can verify asbestos content is by testing the material." Why the difference and does it matter?
Answer: Materials such as acoustic ceiling texture and transite cement are commonly known to be asbestos-containing in many instances. But some inspectors oppose such asbestos-related comments as materials may "possibly contain asbestos" because they are concerned with liability. Their view is that inspectors who comment on conditions that are outside the scope of the inspection can no longer deny responsibility for other issues outside the scope of an inspection, such as problems involving structural engineering or geological stability. Others would rather tell a client that there might be asbestos than risk being sued if it is discovered after the close of escrow.
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Barry Stone, Access Media Group
