Short Answer
If asbestos is discovered during a renovation, work should stop in the affected area until the material has been properly assessed. If testing confirms the presence of asbestos, it must be handled according to WorkSafeBC requirements. Depending on its condition and location, the material may be left undisturbed, enclosed, or removed by qualified asbestos abatement professionals before the renovation can continue.
Asbestos Is More Common Than Many Homeowners Realize
If your home was built before the early 1990s, there’s a possibility that asbestos-containing materials were used during construction.
Asbestos has been found in products such as:
- Drywall joint compound
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Linoleum backing
- Ceiling textures
- Pipe insulation
- Duct insulation
- Cement siding
- Roofing materials
You can’t identify asbestos by looking at it alone.
The only way to know for certain is through laboratory testing.
Stop Work Until the Material Is Identified
If a contractor uncovers a material suspected of containing asbestos, the safest approach is to stop work in that area.
Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release microscopic fibres into the air.
Those fibres can remain airborne for long periods and become a health risk if inhaled.
Testing the material before continuing helps ensure the renovation can proceed safely.
Not Every Asbestos-Containing Material Has to Be Removed
Finding asbestos doesn’t automatically mean your renovation comes to a halt.
If the material is in good condition and won’t be disturbed by the renovation, it may be safer to leave it in place.
If the renovation will affect the material, it may need to be:
- Sealed or encapsulated
- Enclosed behind new construction
- Professionally removed before work continues
The appropriate solution depends on the type of material and the scope of the renovation.
Asbestos Removal Requires Proper Procedures
If removal is necessary, the work must follow strict safety procedures.
Depending on the level of risk, this may involve:
- Containing the work area
- Using specialized protective equipment
- Air filtration systems
- Controlled removal methods
- Proper disposal at approved facilities
These measures help prevent asbestos fibres from spreading throughout the home.
Asbestos Can Affect Your Budget and Timeline
Discovering asbestos usually means the renovation will take longer than originally planned.
Additional costs may include:
- Laboratory testing
- Asbestos inspection
- Professional abatement
- Clearance testing
- Project delays while removal is completed
Although these costs are frustrating, removing or managing asbestos safely is far less expensive than creating a health hazard or contaminating other parts of the home.
Planning Ahead Can Reduce Surprises
If you’re renovating an older home, asbestos testing before demolition can help identify potential issues early.
Knowing what’s behind the walls or under the flooring allows you to budget more accurately and avoid unexpected delays once construction begins.
It’s a relatively small investment that can prevent much larger problems later.
Final Thoughts
Finding asbestos during a renovation doesn’t mean your project is over, but it does mean the work needs to be handled carefully.
The safest approach is to stop work, have the material tested, and follow the appropriate procedures before continuing. Addressing asbestos properly protects your home, your family, and everyone working on the project.
If you want a clear, structured breakdown of your renovation with no guesswork, fill out the form and request a quote. We will walk you through everything so you know exactly what you’re getting into.