Asbestos testing
You only need an asbestos test before you disturb a material, or if it's damaged. EPA says intact materials you're leaving alone don't need testing. When you do test, EPA recommends a trained, accredited professional take the samples, and a lab accredited by NIST's NVLAP program analyze them.
- How testing worksInspections, lab methods, accredited labs, air tests and costs.
- Do I need a test?When EPA says to test, and when testing isn't needed.
- Test kitsKit plus lab fee, turnaround, and whether the lab is accredited.
The short version
- No test needed if building materials "aren't damaged and won't be disturbed" (EPA).
- Test before you sand, drill, scrape, cut or remove materials in an older home.
- A professional should take the samples. EPA: "if done incorrectly, sampling can be more hazardous than leaving the material alone. Taking samples yourself is not recommended."
- Use an accredited lab: EPA recommends labs accredited by NIST's National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) or another accreditation body.
- Vermiculite is the exception: EPA says to assume it contains asbestos rather than test it. See vermiculite insulation.
