The Essential Service You Need Before Committing To Buy Any Older Building

If you are in the market for a home or business property, there are a lot of factors that go into your choice. The proximity of the building to essential services, the size and layout of the property and the general condition that the building is in. What you might not consider is safety. That might seem like a strange factor to consider, as aren't all buildings subject to the same safety standard? While the answer is a resounding yes, there is one problem in particular that is often forgotten about: asbestos. Asbestos still exists in many older properties, and ensuring whatever building you are buying doesn't have it should be one of your top priorities. 

How Do I Know If My Property Is At Risk Of Asbestos Contamination?

Asbestos was largely phased out of production use right at the end of the 20th century in Australia. If the house or building you are looking at was built in the last twenty years, then odds are that you are safe from asbestos. However, this still leaves millions of properties that could potentially be hazardous. The only way to make sure the building is free from asbestos is to request pre-purchase asbestos building inspections. Without having the physical evidence on your side, the value of your property could be severely affected in the long run, so don't put it off.

What Are Pre-Purchase Asbestos Building Inspections?

The process of detecting asbestos is slightly different depending on what type of asbestos you are looking for. There are two major types: bonded and friable asbestos. Bonded is when the asbestos is in a solid form as part of a larger construction such as corrugated roofing. Friable asbestos is asbestos that is the type of asbestos that most people picture when the word is said. It is looser, easily crushable and used in insulation. Friable asbestos is far more dangerous and more commonly tested for in pre-purchase asbestos building inspections.

How Do I Bring The Subject Up With The Owner?

Trying to get pre-purchase asbestos building inspections can be a little tricky if the owner is more combative, but otherwise, it is a fairly simple process. Most owners will allow you to bring your own experts to investigate a building before you sign any contracts. It is part of your due diligence as a buyer, and if they are not comfortable with that, then it is clear there is something to hide. If an owner refuses to let you pay for these preliminary tests, then consider looking elsewhere. 


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