FAQ

Asbestos

Is all asbestos and lead paint dangerous?
No. While asbestos and lead are hazards when disturbed and airborne, If left undisturbed most Asbestos and Lead paint will not be dangerous.

Are all products with asbestos a health risk for the consumer?
No. A health risk exists only when asbestos fibers are released from the material. Soft, easily crumbled asbestos containing material has the greatest potential for asbestos release.

Do all people exposed to asbestos develop asbestos-related Diseases?
No. Most people exposed to small amounts of asbestos do not develop serious health problems.

How can I tell if I have asbestos in my home?
You may hire a qualified professional who is trained and experienced in working with asbestos and lead to survey your home. It is important to have a survey done before you start a renovation containing asbestos.

Does asbestos have to be removed upon real estate sale?
No. There is no law forcing asbestos removal though many buyers ask or require disclosure and the removal prior to sale. There is a law created after 1991 in which any owner who knows of existing asbestos materials must disclose under penalty of law to the new buyers.

Where can I find more information about asbestos removal or building demolition questions?
You can more information about asbestos regulations and recommended removal procedures through your local Air Quality Management District’s website. A statewide directory of California districts can be found at http://www.arb.ca.gov/capcoa/roster.htm.

Do I need to have a survey prior to any demolition or renovation?
Yes, an asbestos survey report is required prior to any demolition and renovation.

Who needs to file the Asbestos Removal or Demolition Notification form(s)?
The Contractor(s) that will remove asbestos and/or demolish the building.

Who should fill out the notification?
A Notification Form should be completed, signed, paid, and mailed by the contractor performing the asbestos removal and/or demolition project and submitted to the local Air Quality Management District.

Are homeowners required to file a Notification Form?
Yes, when the homeowner is performing the house demolition work himself/herself and has not hired* a contractor.

Lead Paint

How do I know if my house has lead-based paint?
Older homes, child care facilities, and schools are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Homes that contain lead-based paint may be single-family homes or apartments. They may be private, government-assisted, or public housing. You can test your home with an EPA-recognized test kit, which are available at your local hardware store. To learn more about EPA-recognized test kits, visit http://epa.gov/lead/testkit.html.

Where is lead paint found in my home?
Lead paint is commonly found painted on wood trim, doors and frames, window components such as sills and sashes. Cabinets and exterior siding, eaves and rafters may also contain lead paint.

Why is lead so dangerous?
Lead in paint and the dust created when paint is pulverized can get into the blood stream and cause health problems such as learning deficits, nerve damage, and red blood cell damage. Even small amounts of lead in the blood stream of children can be deadly.

What should I do if I am concerned about my family's exposure to lead?
A blood test is the only way to find out whether you or a family member already has lead poisoning. Call your doctor or local health department to arrange for a blood test. You can protect your family every day by:

Regularly cleaning floors, window sills, and other surfaces.
Washing children's hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.
Making sure children eat a healthy, nutritious diet consistent with the USDA's dietary guidelines.
Wiping off shoes before entering the house.
Using an EPA-certified firm for renovations, or if you are doing the renovation yourself, using lead-safe work practices (see http://www.epa.gov/lead for more information).

Mold

What mold spores are most dangerous, and why?
Many molds are naturally occurring following water damage, though the Stachybotrys mold can be deadly when disturbed. The spores infiltrate the respiratory system and can cause deadly sickness.

What are the signs of a mold or moisture problem?
You could have a mold or moisture problem if you see discolored patches (could be dark or many other colors) or cottony or speckled growth on walls or furniture, or evidence of water-damaged surfaces, or if you smell an earthy or musty odor. You also may suspect mold growth or a moisture problem if people have upper or lower respiratory symptoms when in the house, classroom, or workplace (see the health effects of mold).
If you see mold or current water damage in your building, you should look for the source of moisture. You may find mold growth underneath water-damaged surfaces (for example, wallpaper or carpet) or behind furniture, walls, floors, or ceilings.

California Contractors License #922790, DTSC #5886, Cal OSHA #966