Asbestos fibers can be very dangerous and pose significant health risks. The last thing you want is a home with asbestos. If you want to be absolutely sure there's no asbestos in your home, it's a good idea to have a building inspection performed. This inspection will provide you with a clear overview of all findings.
The building inspection report may also recommend further asbestos testing. Homekeur also conducts asbestos surveys. If you've purchased a home and discover asbestos is present, the question naturally arises as to who is liable. Homekeur is happy to explain this often complex topic.
Asbestos is a collective term for naturally occurring minerals. These are minerals composed of microscopic fibers. Asbestos can be present in a home in two ways: in a bound state and as loose fibers. If asbestos is bound, there are no health risks. If loose asbestos fibers are present in the home, then there is a danger. These small asbestos particles can easily be inhaled, after which they penetrate deep into the lungs. Several serious diseases can develop as a result, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Cancer caused by asbestos is incurable.
The presence of asbestos in homes, in its loose form, therefore has very serious consequences. A significant number of homes do contain asbestos. Why is this? It is primarily due to the choice of asbestos as a wear-resistant, insulating, and fire-resistant material in home construction. This occurred primarily between 1960 and 1993. This means that for more than 30 years, asbestos was preferred. As a result, we often see asbestos in stove seals, chimneys, sewer pipes, and roofing, among other things. Asbestos was also used in spray form, meaning it could also be present in/on walls.
Have you bought a house and discovered it contains asbestos? You'll want to hold the seller liable for the damage. You'll face a reduction in the property's value and will have to pay remediation costs. Can you hold the seller liable? A judge will consider this matter, but they won't always rule in your favor.
Is the asbestos blue or brown, loose (non-bonded) asbestos, or asbestos present in multiple locations within the house? Then the seller is more likely to be held liable than if the asbestos is bonded, white, or in a single location. Several factors play a significant role in determining liability.
You don't want asbestos in your home. That goes without saying. Homekeur doesn't just perform professional building inspections . You can schedule an appointment directly online. Would you like to learn more? Feel free to contact us without obligation. We're happy to provide you with information and advice.
The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!
