Fire Damage and Potential Asbestos Risk – Advice Needed

[Zakimasood]

A recent fire in my home has raised concerns about asbestos exposure. The property is older, and I know some parts of the building (walls, ceilings, or insulation) may contain asbestos.

I’m aware that fire can disturb asbestos materials and release fibres into the air, but I’m not sure how serious the risk is after the fire has been extinguished and repairs are being planned.

Has anyone dealt with asbestos contamination after a fire?

• How quickly should an asbestos inspection be carried out?

• Is it safe to enter the property before testing?

• What precautions should be taken during cleanup?

Any advice or shared experiences would be appreciated, especially from those who’ve gone through fire restoration in older properties with possible asbestos.

[Mike North]

If you have concerns than you need the advice of an asbestos survey company.  Your insurance company should be dealing with it.

• How quickly should an asbestos inspection be carried out?
  • Before re-entry
• Is it safe to enter the property before testing?
  • If you suspect, then NO, it may be illegal under the HSW act 
• What precautions should be taken during cleanup?
  • Removal should only be done by an approved asbestos removal company

[green-foam]

Just saying, Zakimasood shows his location as USA, so the HSW act will not apply, and the construction methods are not the same as we have, best he asks on a USA forum, not a UK based forum

[Mike North]

The correct US advice (which does not differ from the UK)

Following a building fire in the US, if asbestos is suspected, prioritize safety by restricting access to the affected area, informing occupants, and contacting a licensed asbestos surveyor. Avoid disturbing suspected materials and ensure professional asbestos abatement if asbestos is confirmed.