Asbestos abatement, $20,000 - $40,000

[Kenton H. Shepard, CMI]

The architect with whom I share an office is designing a home for a couple who bought a lot with a scraper. Colorado now requires testing of all properties before a building permit which includes demolition is issued.

The asbestos screening report came back describing 3% asbestos in the drywall joint compound and texture. Although they're still getting abatement prices they've now got two in the low $20,000 range and one around $40,000.

Manufacturers commonly included asbestos in joint compound and texture until about 1978. For years after that they were still using up what had been manufactured and sat in warehouses, so homes built well into the early 1980's could have asbestos in the walls and ceiling.

Since this situation can put a big dent in a wallet or put somebody in their grave, it's a good idea to put it in the report. It's not every day you can save a life or 40 grand with one sentance.