Hiring an inspector is often the first time an owner deals with asbestos at all. It is easy to hire whoever can come soonest. Speed matters, especially when water damage is waiting, but a quick inspection that misses the materials your project will disturb wastes more time than it saves.
Use the questions below on the phone or by email. Good inspectors answer them easily. Write the answers down so you can compare.
Pay attention to how the inspector talks about scope. Someone who asks what you plan to do, which rooms will be opened and whether systems will be replaced is thinking about the materials your project will actually disturb. Someone who quotes a flat number of samples before hearing about the job may be planning a generic inspection that leaves gaps.
Questions by topic
- Certification: What is your CDPHE building inspector certification number and its expiration date?
- Scope: Will you inspect only what my project will disturb, or the whole building? What would you recommend and why?
- Hidden materials: How do you handle layers under newer flooring or materials inside walls?
- Sampling: How do you decide how many samples to take from each material?
- Laboratory: Which lab will analyze the samples, and is it accredited for this analysis?
- Turnaround: How long until I have results? Is faster turnaround available if drying or demolition is waiting?
- Report: What will the written report include, and will lab results be attached?
- Quantities: Will the report estimate quantities of positive materials so I can compare abatement bids?
- Independence: Do you have any business relationship with abatement contractors you might recommend?
- Permits: Will your report be in a form my building department accepts?
Compare inspectors side by side
| Item | Inspector A | Inspector B | Inspector C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certification verified with CDPHE | |||
| Scope offered | |||
| Lab and accreditation | |||
| Results turnaround | |||
| Report includes quantities | |||
| Ties to abatement firms | |||
| Earliest available date |
Common questions
Can my general contractor's employee do the inspection?
Only if that person holds the appropriate current CDPHE certification. Even then, some owners prefer an independent inspector. Verify the certification with CDPHE either way.
Is a home inspector the same as an asbestos building inspector?
No. A general home inspector evaluates the house as a whole and may note suspect materials, but sampling for regulated purposes in Colorado is done by someone holding CDPHE asbestos building inspector certification.
How many samples is normal?
It depends on how many distinct materials the project touches and their size. The inspector should explain the number rather than just state it.
General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.