These are the questions that come up most often before a project starts. If your situation is more specific, the fastest way to get a real answer is a free on-site assessment, where we can look at your property directly instead of guessing over the phone.
General Questions
What is the difference between asbestos abatement and asbestos removal?
Abatement is the broader term for controlling asbestos risk, which can include removal, repair, or encapsulation. Removal specifically means taking the material out of the building. In most residential and renovation projects, removal is the option we recommend and provide.
Is it dangerous to be in a building where asbestos-containing material has not been disturbed?
Intact, undisturbed asbestos-containing material is generally considered lower risk than material that has been damaged, cut, sanded, or is deteriorating, because fibres are not being released into the air. The safest step is still to have it identified and assessed so you know what you are dealing with before any renovation disturbs it.
What should I do if I disturb a material and suspect it might contain asbestos?
Stop work in that area right away, avoid sweeping, sanding, or vacuuming the material with a regular vacuum, and try to limit foot traffic through the area. Contact us for a free on-site assessment before continuing any work.
What is a Designated Substance Survey, in plain terms?
It is an inspection of a property, generally required under Ontario Regulation 278/05 before renovation, demolition, repair, or maintenance work on a building that may contain asbestos-containing material, especially buildings built before 1990. It documents what designated substances are present so the project can be planned and controlled properly. A survey costs $250-$1,500, depending on property size and scope.
Can I get written documentation for my insurer, lender, or property manager?
Yes. Testing and inspection projects include a written report, and removal projects are documented with a written quote and disposal records, which you can pass along to an insurer, lender, or property manager as needed.
Do you handle disposal, or do I need to arrange that separately?
We handle disposal as part of our removal service. Asbestos-containing material is contained, transported, and disposed of at an approved facility, so you do not need to arrange this yourself.
Can property managers request quotes for multiple units or buildings at once?
Yes. Tell us the number of units or buildings and their general condition when you reach out, and we will coordinate assessments and quotes across the portfolio.
How far in advance should I book a project?
It depends on the scope of the work and current scheduling, so contact us directly for an accurate timeline. Emergency situations are handled separately with priority scheduling.
Do you work on older heritage or historic buildings?
Yes. We work on a range of property types and ages, including older heritage buildings, and we adjust our containment approach to fit the building's construction and any heritage considerations.
What is the difference between Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 asbestos work under Ontario Regulation 278/05?
Type 1 is low-risk work, such as removing non-friable material like vinyl floor tile by hand without power tools. Type 2 is medium-risk work, such as removing one square metre or less of friable material, or removing pipe insulation with a glove bag. Type 3 is high-risk work, such as removing more than one square metre of friable material like a full popcorn ceiling or crumbling pipe wrap, and needs full enclosure, constant wetting and, indoors, negative air.