Asbestos is nicknamed the miracle fiber because of its indestructability. Asbestos minerals have been used in building materials for fire-proofing and strengthening for close to 100 years and can still be found today in both old and new buildings. As a restoration contractor responding to water damage and fire damage, we have to be aware that asbestos can be present in the materials that are being disturbed.
Asbestos is a very serious issue because of the potential health issues and liability issues. If you are not a licensed asbestos contractor and you disturb and/or remove asbestos, you can have some serious consequences to deal with. Just like lead-based paint and mold, if you disturb them you can cross-contaminate a building and expose people. Asbestos is more alarming because of the many regulations tied to it.