If you have a building built pre 1985 (I know this date can be different, but I’m playing it safe) before bidding a project you need to have an asbestos survey performed, called a building inspection.
Honestly, they usually aren’t done before bidding. SOMETIMES, they’re performed before starting the work (not good).
How do you find a good building inspector? …Google?, Yellow pages (who does that anymore?) Abatement contractor?
Whomever you hire, make sure they have a current AHERA Building Inspector Certificate. This is a Federal program maintained by TSCA Title II EPA AHERA/ASHARA Model Accreditation Program. This is your only recourse if something goes wrong. It doesn’t matter if have have a PhD, CIH, ROH, CSP and MBA, they MUST have a current AHERA Building Inspector Certificate.
Here are some things to consider:
- Does the Building Inspector have a current certificate?
- Will they sample for asbestos?
- Which lab will they use for analysis? Their own? (not always a bad thing)
- Which areas are they unable to access in the building?
- Will they check for leaded paint?
- Will they take pictures?
- How long till you will get the results & report?
- Will they write a report?
- Are they capable of performing air monitoring? (worth asking, but not a deal-breaker)
- Will they look back at previous records / management plans?
- Cost?
Good luck in your search. As most things, a good referral from a friend is probably a great starting spot.