Where to look and what to note
| Area | Materials to note | Condition to record |
|---|---|---|
| Basement | Floor tile and adhesive, pipe insulation, boiler jacket, duct wrap, old furnace | Cracked, lifting, crumbling or water-stained |
| Kitchen | Sheet vinyl or tile layers, wall texture, ceiling texture, backsplash adhesive | Number of flooring layers visible at edges or vents |
| Bathrooms | Floor tile and grout setting beds, wall plaster, ceiling texture | Water damage, soft spots, peeling |
| Living areas and bedrooms | Acoustic ceiling texture, wall texture, plaster | Stains, sagging, flaking |
| Attic | Loose-fill vermiculite, insulation on old ducts | Whether fill has sifted through light fixtures |
| Exterior | Cement siding panels, roofing, window glazing putty | Cracks, hail damage, broken pieces on the ground |
| Garage and outbuildings | Cement panels, older floor coverings, wall board | Holes, breaks, debris |
Before the inspector arrives
- Write the construction year and any known remodel years at the top of your notes.
- List the rooms your planned project will affect, and mark them clearly.
- Note any material that is already damaged so it can be prioritized.
- Clear access to the attic hatch, crawlspace and mechanical room without moving suspect material.
- Gather any previous reports, even partial ones, from past owners or remodels.
- Take wide photos of each room for your own records.
Three rules while you walk through
- Look, do not touch
- No poking, scraping, peeling up corners or pulling back carpet to check underneath
- Guessing is not knowing
- Age, color and pattern can raise suspicion but cannot confirm or rule out asbestos
- Hidden layers count
- Write down places where older material might sit under newer finishes, even if you cannot see it
Common questions
Do I need to list materials in rooms my project will not touch?
For a renovation, the focus is on materials the work will disturb. Listing damaged materials anywhere in the house is still worthwhile, since those may need attention regardless.
What if the house was built after 1980?
Asbestos is less likely in newer construction, but not impossible, and some products remained available later. A certified inspector can advise whether sampling is warranted for your project.
Should I include the garage and exterior?
Yes, if your project reaches them. Siding, soffits and garage wall panels on older homes are easy to forget until a contractor starts cutting.
General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.