Asbestos is a construction and manufacturing material that was used in many different materials. It was completely banned about 20 years ago therefore there are still houses and buildings that contain asbestos-containing materials (AMCs) and if they are broken down they can be hazardous. The cost for an asbestos removal project depends on the size of the area to be contained and cleaned. There are many licensed contractors that can provide the same service; the best thing to do before hiring one is requesting quotes of at least three companies and then make a decision based on your budget.
Can You Put a Price on Health?
The consequences that asbestos fibers can have on the health of you and your family are deadly. For most people, the health of their own kids is simply priceless and that is why they decide to remove the asbestos containing materials as soon as they have a chance. The first step on ensuring the safety of your family is contacting a licensed contractor to run an analysis on the suspected area. Once they determine that asbestos is present it is up to you if you want to proceed with the removal project. Keep in mind that the exposure to asbestos jeopardizes the health of your family, your own, and nearby visitors. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has laws that strive for an asbestos-free environment.
Why Waiting Is More Costly
When asbestos fiber reaches the lungs it can cause three deadly conditions which are asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. If one waits too long there is a risk of being exposed to this fiber and eventually developing one of those conditions. Any health related problem causes not only financial stress but also constant mental pressure. Having to pay for medical treatment for serious illnesses such as the ones caused by asbestos can become overwhelming and expensive. Waiting too long to take care of the problem might end up being more costly and far more hazardous than what it would have been if treated promptly.
Ballpark Pricing and Where to Get a Quote
As stated before the actual price for an asbestos removal project depends on the size of the area to be contained. For example if you only need to remove a pipeline section of 10 feet it might come out to be a total price of about $700 however keep in mind that many contractors have a minimum fee that could round $1500 and up; it doesn't matter how small the job may be that is how much they are willing to work for. The initial fee, just for inspection, can round between $400 and $800 for an average 1,500 sq2 foot home. However if the removal has to be done in that same house but the asbestos is found everywhere (roof, walls, attic, floors, ceilings) the removal could climb up to about $20,000 and higher. The best place to get a quote is by visiting the companies' websites and making a quote inquiry.