Working with JSA
Asbestos inspections
Surveys, material sampling, and laboratory analysis that identify asbestos-containing materials before renovation, demolition, or repair work begins.
Start with your questions.
Asbestos was used in many building products because it resisted heat, fire, and wear. It becomes a concern when a material is damaged or disturbed and microscopic fibers can become airborne.
New to this topic? Read our asbestos guide →
Your agreed ScopeThe work included in the assignment: areas, materials, methods, reporting, and any exclusions. will describe the areas we assess, the work included, and any limits on access or testing.
Understand the context
What this service looks at
Breathing airborne asbestos fibers can increase the risk of serious lung disease. A material cannot be confirmed as asbestos-containing by appearance alone; representative samples must be collected safely and analyzed by a qualified laboratory.
EPA: Asbestos in the home ↗Common materials, locations, or project types
- Floor tile, sheet flooring, and associated mastics
- Acoustic ceiling texture and other sprayed or troweled coatings
- Drywall systems, joint compound, and wall or ceiling textures
- Pipe, boiler, furnace, and HVAC insulation
- Roofing materials, mastics, siding, and cement products
When an assessment can help
- Before remodeling, demolition, or repairs that will disturb suspect materials
- When older building materials are damaged, crumbling, or affected by water or fire
- Before a contractor prepares a demolition or abatement estimate
- When an owner, insurer, agency, or permit process requires documentation
What you may receive
- Written survey report with laboratory results
- Material descriptions, locations, estimated quantities, and condition
- Clear identification of positive and non-detect materials sampled
- Recommendations that can be used for planning, pricing, or regulatory coordination
What the work involves
- Review the building, planned work, and areas that may be disturbed
- Identify groups of similar suspect materials and collect representative samples
- Coordinate analysis with an accredited laboratory
- Document material locations, quantities, condition, results, and practical next steps
Prepare for a useful conversation
Before your visit
Share the property address, how the building is used, the work being planned, and the areas of concern. Include previous reports, photographs, drawings, access restrictions, and deadlines when available.
Agree on the scope
Confirm which areas and materials are included, whether sampling or follow-up visits are planned, and who needs the report. A limited assessment describes the areas evaluated; it does not automatically cover every part of a property.
Use the complete report
Read conclusions alongside the scope, laboratory or instrument results, photographs, and limitations. If the planned work changes or additional materials are discovered, ask whether further assessment is needed.
Prepare your project details →Your questions are welcome
Let’s talk about your property.
You don’t have to choose a test on your own. Tell us what you’ve noticed or what work you’re planning, and we’ll help you understand the next step.