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What Should I Do If I Find Asbestos During a Home Renovation?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Stop Work and Seal the Area

The moment you suspect asbestos, stop all renovation work right away. Turn off any fans or air conditioning that could spread dust. Close doors and windows, and block off the room with plastic sheeting and duct tape. Keep family members and pets out of the space until a professional can assess it.

Do not touch the material, sweep it, or try to bag it yourself. Disturbing asbestos can release tiny fibers into the air, which are dangerous if inhaled. Even a small amount of damage can cause a problem. The safest move is to leave it alone and call for help.

  • Turn off HVAC systems to prevent air movement.
  • Close all doors and windows in the affected area.
  • Use plastic sheeting and tape to seal the room.
  • Keep children and pets away from the space.
  • Do not vacuum or sweep any debris.

Identify the Material Safely

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials before the 1980s. You might find it in insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, siding, or pipe wrap. If your home was built before that time, any damaged material during renovation could contain asbestos. Do not assume a material is safe just because it looks old.

You cannot tell if something contains asbestos just by looking at it. The only way to know for sure is to have a sample tested by a laboratory that specializes in asbestos analysis. A professional can take a small sample safely and send it for testing. Wait for the results before you decide your next steps.

  • Check for asbestos in insulation, tiles, and siding.
  • Homes built before 1980 are more likely to contain it.
  • Only a lab test can confirm asbestos presence.
  • Hire a professional to take samples safely.

Hire a Qualified Asbestos Professional

Asbestos removal is not a do-it-yourself job. You need a professional who is trained to handle hazardous materials. Look for a local asbestos abatement contractor or an environmental consultant with proper credentials. They have the right equipment and procedures to remove or seal the material safely.

Ask the professional about their process and safety measures. They should follow federal and state regulations for handling asbestos. They will also tell you how to dispose of the waste properly. Trust their guidance, and do not rush the process. Your health is more important than a renovation deadline.

Plan for Safe Removal and Disposal

The professional will likely seal off the work area with plastic and use negative air pressure to keep fibers contained. They may wet the material to reduce dust. After removal, they will clean the area with special vacuums and dispose of the waste in approved containers. This process takes time and care.

Once the asbestos is gone, the area should be tested again to confirm it is safe. Then you can proceed with your renovation. Keep records of the removal and disposal for your own files. This documentation can be helpful if you sell the home or do future work.

Handle Insurance and Costs

Asbestos removal can be costly, and the final price depends on the amount of material, the size of the area, and local regulations. Some homeowners have coverage for asbestos under their property insurance, but many do not. Check your policy to see if it includes asbestos abatement. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

If you have a contractor already, ask if they have experience with asbestos. They may be able to coordinate the abatement with the renovation. Keep all receipts and paperwork for the removal. This will help if you file a claim or need to document the work later.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I remove asbestos myself to save money?

Removing asbestos yourself is risky and often illegal. Disturbing it can release dangerous fibers into your air. Professional removal is the safest choice, and many areas require it by law. The cost depends on the extent of the material and local rules.

What if I already disturbed the asbestos?

Stop all activity and leave the area immediately. Close off the room and open a window to vent, but do not use fans. Contact a professional for testing and cleanup. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. Do not vacuum or sweep, as that spreads fibers.

How long does asbestos removal take?

The time varies depending on the size of the area and the amount of material. A small section might take a day, while a whole house could take several days. The professional will give you a timeline based on your specific situation. Patience is important for safety.

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