Asbestos testing costs $250 to $850 on average. The visual inspection alone costs $100 to $500 and testing costs about $20 to $80 per sample, so the size of the area and the number of materials being tested have a big impact on the cost. A certified inspector visually assesses the area, takes samples for testing, and provides a report with the results. If the report finds asbestos, the inspector will also provide recommendations for how to move forward.

An asbestos refurbishment and demolition survey costs $600 to $1,500+ and is required before any renovation or demolition projects. This survey tests all potential asbestos-containing materials in space.

There are several types of asbestos tests:

• Physical sample testing costs $250 to $850+ and is the most common test type.
• Air testing costs $300 to $1,000+ and is often done both before and after a construction project.
• Dust sample testing costs $150 to $250+. Dust collection methods include scraping, wiping, tape-lift, and micro-vacuuming.
• Water testing costs $100 to $300, not counting the sample collection.

Strongly consider testing for asbestos in the following situations:

• You are planning to buy an older home or building.
• You are planning to renovate or demolish a structure, regardless of whether it is new or old.
• You suspect your home may have asbestos-containing materials.
• Your home sustained structural damage in a flood or other disaster.

Undamaged and undisturbed asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are not dangerous. However, when the ACM is disturbed, hazardous fibers become airborne and dangerous. If you suspect your home contains ACM, leave it alone and contact a certified asbestos contractor to inspect and test it safely.

Asbestos is tested in a lab using methods that detect the fibers microscopically. Sample requirements differ depending on the laboratory, but most labs request a 1" to 2" square for materials like ceiling tiles, drywall pieces, or flooring material. For dust and other materials, labs typically ask for about 1 tablespoon or a quarter size amount.

The most common methods for asbestos testing are:

• Phase contrast microscopy (PCM)
• Polarized light microscopy (PLM)
• Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)

You can collect samples for testing yourself with DIY kits that cost $50 to $250, depending on the number of samples. However, due to the dangers and serious health risks associated with asbestos-containing material (ACM), it's best to hire a certified professional to inspect, test, and report.

Most home inspectors do not test for asbestos, but they typically will alert you if they see suspected asbestos-containing materials in the house. Some home inspectors may offer asbestos testing as an extra service for an additional cost if they are also trained and certified to provide asbestos inspections.

Asbestos testing takes one day to several weeks for the lab testing. Most labs offer tiered pricing based on how quickly you need the results. An asbestos inspector typically spends 30 minutes to 3+ hours collecting samples, depending on the area size and the number of materials being tested.

Due to its associated health risks, asbestos is highly regulated, and testing should be conducted by a qualified professional. Follow these guidelines when looking for an asbestos testing company near you:

• Check with your state asbestos contacts for asbestos inspection and testing requirements specific to your state.
• Hire an 3rd party asbestos inspector not affilicated with an asbestos abatement company.
• Get at least 3 estimates from licensed, bonded, and insured asbestos testing companies.
• Confirm the inspector is AHERA certified, and the company adheres to all EPA and OSHA standards.
• Verify the inspector's licensing and asbestos inspection credentials.
• Get written confirmation that all EPA guidelines and OSHA standards are followed.

Ask the following questions to help you choose a qualified asbestos inspector:

• Are you AHERA certified to inspect and test for asbestos in this state?
• Does the quote cover visual inspection, all sample testing, and a report of the results?
• How many samples do you need to collect?
• How quickly do the lab test results come back?
• Do you go over the test results with me and provide recommendations if asbestos is found?
• Are there legal requirements for how to proceed if the tests confirm asbestos is present?
• How much do you charge to do an inspection after asbestos has been removed?