Find your situation

  • IfYou want to hang a picture on an older plaster or drywall wallThenA single small nail is minor disturbance, but drilling many holes or anchors is different. For larger projects, test the wall first.
  • IfYou want to replace a light fixture in a textured ceilingThenSwapping a fixture without cutting the ceiling is low-disturbance; cutting a new opening is not. Sample the ceiling before cutting.
  • IfFloor tile in the basement is cracked and looseThenLeave pieces where they are, limit traffic and arrange inspection. Do not sweep up fragments.
  • IfYou see crumbling white wrap on old pipesThenKeep people away from that area, store nothing near it and call a certified inspector.
  • IfYou want to pull up carpet in an older houseThenCheck whether older tile or sheet flooring lies beneath. Get that layer tested before pulling tack strips or scraping.
  • IfThere is pebbly fill in the atticThenStay out of the attic and do not disturb it. Treat it as possibly containing asbestos.
  • IfWater has soaked a textured ceiling and it is saggingThenKeep everyone out of the room below. A collapsing ceiling is a safety issue first; call for help.
  • IfA contractor wants to start demolition without a test reportThenPause the work. Ask for inspection by a CDPHE-certified inspector first.

The principle behind every answer

Asbestos is a hazard when fibers get into the air. Undisturbed, intact material generally is not releasing much of anything. That is why nearly every row above points toward not touching it, or touching it only after you know what it is.

Small, everyday actions in older homes are usually not the concern. The concern is the project that cuts, sands, scrapes, grinds or demolishes, and the damage from water, fire or hail that leaves material broken and crumbling.

When the answer is get it tested

  • Write down where the material is and what you plan to do.
  • Take a photo without touching it.
  • Find a CDPHE-certified asbestos building inspector and verify the certification with CDPHE.
  • Hold the project until results are in.
  • Keep the report with your house records.

Common questions

What about drilling a few holes to mount a TV?

A handful of holes in an older wall is a small disturbance, but it is still a disturbance of an unknown material. If you are unsure, have the wall finish sampled first, especially if many anchors or a cable channel are planned.

General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.