Posted by: Karim Ali
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Asbestos in Alta Vista
If you’re considering buying a home in Alta Vista, Ottawa, you’ll want to read this. One of the most prevalent issues in this neighbourhood is asbestos. Here’s why it matters and what you need to know to stay informed.
Special thanks to Alain Charron for the help writing this blog. He’s a home inspector with Property Inspection Network – an engineer with well over 10,000 inspections under his belt. A solid choice for any homebuyer in Ottawa and its surroundings.
Why Asbestos is a Common Problem in Alta Vista
Alta Vista, located in the southeastern part of Ottawa, is well-known for its tree-lined streets and charming older homes. While the architecture and history make the area appealing, one common problem buyers need to be aware of is asbestos. Many homes in this neighbourhood were built before 1973, when asbestos was a standard construction material due to its insulation and fire-resistant properties.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in building materials from the 1940s to the late 1980s. While it was effective for insulation and fireproofing, it’s now known to pose serious health risks if disturbed. When asbestos fibres become airborne and are inhaled, they can lead to severe respiratory diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Why Alta Vista?
Due to the age of many homes in Alta Vista, it’s not uncommon for properties to contain materials with asbestos. This includes floor tiles, attic insulation (often seen as vermiculite), roof shingles, and even some types of drywall compound. Buyers should be cautious, especially if they’re considering renovations that could disturb these materials.
What to Look For When Buying in Alta Vista
- Home Inspection Reports: Ensure the home inspection covers potential asbestos risks. Not all standard inspections include this, so make sure to ask the inspector specifically.
- Vermiculite Insulation: One of the biggest red flags for asbestos is vermiculite insulation in the attic. Homes in Alta Vista often feature this type of insulation, which may contain asbestos.
- Renovation History: Check if the home has undergone renovations in the past. A property with recent updates might have had asbestos safely removed, which can be a bonus. However, if the house hasn’t been updated, be prepared for potential asbestos remediation costs.
What to Do if Asbestos is Found
If your inspection reveals the presence of asbestos, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to ensure the home is safe:
- Professional Removal: The safest approach is to hire a certified asbestos abatement company to remove or seal the affected areas. This process can be costly but is essential for long-term health and safety.
- Leave It Intact: Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed. If it’s not likely to be moved or damaged, experts may recommend leaving it as is but monitoring it for future changes.
Cost of Asbestos Removal
The cost to remove asbestos can vary significantly based on the extent of contamination. Homeowners in Alta Vista can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $30,000, depending on the amount of asbestos present and its location in the home.
Health Considerations
Prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to significant health issues. Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not appear until 20-30 years after exposure. This is why it’s crucial to address potential asbestos risks proactively.
Why This Matters for Homebuyers
Understanding the potential for asbestos in older homes isn’t just about safety—it’s also about financial planning. Remediation costs can impact your budget, so factoring this into your home-buying decision in Alta Vista is wise.
Bonus tips for Alta Vista Homebuyers
1
Plan for Contingencies
Always budget for potential remediation work in older properties. It’s better to be overprepared than surprised by unexpected expenses.
2
Consult Experts
Don’t rely solely on a general home inspection. Consulting with an asbestos specialist can give you a clearer picture of potential issues. This is especially important if you intend to complete work to your future home.
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