Asbestos Inspection Services
Professional Asbestos Inspection Services
EPA/AHERA-Certified · Accredited Lab Analysis · 40+ Years of Indoor Environmental Expertise
Asbestos remains one of the most serious indoor health hazards in American buildings — and the only way to know for certain whether it is present is through a professional inspection. AirWell provides EPA/AHERA-certified asbestos inspection services for homeowners, property managers, and contractors across New Mexico, Colorado, and Oklahoma. Our inspectors use AHERA-compliant sampling protocols, and every sample is analyzed by an accredited third-party laboratory, giving you results you can trust and documentation you can act on.
Whether you are buying or selling a home, planning a renovation, or managing a commercial property, our team delivers a clear written report with findings and next-step guidance — typically within 24–48 hours of lab analysis.
Call (888) 541-8551 or use the form below to schedule your inspection.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals composed of thin, fibrous crystals. Resistant to heat, electricity, and chemical corrosion, it was used extensively in building materials from the 1940s through the 1970s — appearing in insulation, flooring, roofing, ceiling tiles, drywall compound, and hundreds of other products.
Asbestos fibers are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye. When materials containing asbestos are disturbed, those fibers become airborne and can be inhaled, lodging permanently in lung tissue where they cause serious, often fatal diseases.
At AirWell, our EPA/AHERA-certified inspectors use specialized sampling techniques and accredited laboratory analysis to accurately detect and assess asbestos in buildings — particularly those constructed before 1980.
Why Asbestos Inspection Is a Health and Legal Priority
Asbestos fibers cause no immediate symptoms when inhaled — which is precisely what makes them so dangerous. Diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer typically develop decades after initial exposure — often 20 to 50 years. By the time symptoms appear, significant damage has often already occurred.
Beyond health, federal and state regulations create legal obligations for property owners, sellers, and contractors:
- Federal NESHAP regulations require asbestos inspections before any demolition or renovation of commercial or public buildings.
- OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 requires contractors to presume asbestos is present in certain building materials before disturbing them.
- State disclosure laws in New Mexico, Colorado, and Oklahoma require sellers to disclose known hazardous materials, including asbestos.
⚠ Safety Notice: Do not disturb suspected asbestos-containing materials. Sanding, drilling, cutting, or breaking such materials can release microscopic fibers into the air. If you suspect asbestos, stop work immediately and contact a certified inspector before proceeding.
Under EPA NESHAP (40 CFR 61 Subpart M) and the Clean Air Act, federal law requires asbestos inspection before renovation or demolition of pre-1980 structures. The EPA classifies asbestos as a Group A human carcinogen. Learn more at EPA.gov/asbestos →
Content last reviewed by AirWell’s AHERA-certified inspectors: March 2026.
What Makes Asbestos Hazardous?
Asbestos becomes dangerous when its materials are disturbed — through renovation, demolition, or natural deterioration — causing microscopic fibers to become airborne. Once inhaled, these hook-shaped fibers cannot be broken down by the body. They lodge permanently in lung tissue, causing inflammation, scarring, and eventually life-threatening disease.
Unlike many workplace hazards, asbestos poses no immediate symptoms. People exposed decades ago are only now developing mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer — diseases with no cure and poor survival rates.
AirWell’s certified inspectors can assess your property, identify asbestos-containing materials (ACM), and provide clear written guidance — protecting your health and your legal compliance.
What Building Materials Commonly Contain Asbestos?
Asbestos was incorporated into over 3,000 building materials before its use was regulated. If your building was constructed before 1980, the following should be professionally tested before any renovation or demolition:
- Pipe and boiler insulation
- Floor tiles and vinyl flooring backing
- Ceiling tiles and textured coatings (popcorn ceilings)
- Drywall joint compound and plaster
- Roofing shingles and felt
- Siding including transite panels
- Attic insulation especially vermiculite
- HVAC duct insulation and wrapping
AirWell’s inspectors systematically assess each suspect material and collect samples for laboratory confirmation.
Our Credentials & Expertise
AirWell’s inspectors are certified, trained, and equipped to conduct thorough asbestos assessments in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations:
- EPA/AHERA Certified: All field inspectors hold current AHERA certification as required by 40 CFR Part 763.
- Accredited Laboratory: All bulk samples are submitted to an accredited third-party laboratory for Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) analysis per EPA Method 600/R-93/116.
- 40+ Years of Experience: Decades of combined indoor environmental science expertise across asbestos, mold, radon, and indoor air quality assessments.
- Standards Followed: AHERA (40 CFR 763), EPA NESHAP (40 CFR 61 Subpart M), OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101, and applicable NM, CO, and OK state regulations.
AirWell’s inspection team completes training through EPA-approved AHERA provider courses, with refresher certification every three years to maintain active accreditation. All field work adheres to OSHA’s Asbestos Standard (29 CFR 1926.1101) for construction work, including required personal protective equipment, air monitoring, and regulated area protocols.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos-related diseases are progressive, incurable, and frequently fatal. What makes asbestos uniquely dangerous is its latency — these conditions typically emerge 20 to 50 years after initial exposure, meaning workers and homeowners harmed during the peak construction era of the 1960s and 1970s are only now receiving diagnoses. The four primary diseases linked to asbestos exposure are detailed at right.
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), there is no known safe level of asbestos exposure. OSHA estimates approximately 1.3 million construction workers face significant asbestos exposure each year in the United States. If you suspect asbestos in your building, professional inspection is the only reliable protective measure — never disturb suspected materials before testing.
To learn more about how asbestos and other indoor contaminants impact your indoor environment and health, visit our Contaminants & Health resource page.
Who Is at Risk?
Asbestos-related diseases affect thousands of Americans each year. Those at highest risk include:
- Construction and trade workers — plumbers, electricians, insulation workers, and demolition crews who worked in pre-1980 buildings
- Homeowners remodeling older properties — especially those sanding, cutting, or drilling materials without professional testing first
- Building occupants — in structures where asbestos-containing materials have deteriorated or been disturbed over time
- Family members — exposed secondarily through contaminated work clothing brought home from job sites
If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing respiratory symptoms, consult a physician immediately. For authoritative medical information, visit cdc.gov or epa.gov/asbestos.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to lung tissue scarring and difficulty breathing. This condition develops over time, often decades after exposure, making early identification challenging.
Asbestosis is significant because it indicates prolonged asbestos exposure, which increases the risk of more severe diseases like lung cancer and mesothelioma. There’s no cure, but early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer, one of the most common and deadly cancers, arises from the lungs’ airways or tissues. It’s crucial to identify and treat lung cancer early due to its aggressive nature and potential to spread rapidly.
Symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unexplained weight loss. Smoking is a major risk factor, but lung cancer can also arise from environmental factors like radon and asbestos exposure.
Pleural Disease
Pleural disease encompasses various conditions affecting the pleura, the thin membrane surrounding the lungs. Common forms include pleural effusion (fluid accumulation), pleuritis (inflammation), and pleural plaques (thickening).
Often linked to asbestos exposure, pleural diseases can cause chest pain, breathing difficulties, and reduced lung function. Early identification is vital as these conditions can signify underlying issues like infection, inflammation, or even cancer.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs (pleura) or abdomen (peritoneum), usually linked to asbestos exposure. Symptoms often appear decades after exposure and include chest pain, shortness of breath, and abdominal swelling.
Understanding mesothelioma’s link to asbestos exposure is essential for prevention and for seeking timely medical advice if symptoms arise, especially in individuals with known asbestos exposure history.
Given these severe health risks, having your property inspected by professionals like those at AirWell is crucial. We take the time to understand your symptoms, using the information we gather to guide our processes and create tailored solutions.
Our Asbestos Inspection Process — Step by Step
Every AirWell asbestos inspection follows a standardized, AHERA-compliant protocol. Here is exactly what you can expect:
Step 1: Schedule & Pre-Inspection Consultation
We begin with a brief consultation to understand your property type, construction age, reason for inspection, and any specific concerns. This allows us to estimate scope and prepare the right sampling materials.
Step 2: On-Site Visual Assessment
A certified inspector conducts a systematic visual survey of all suspect areas, focusing on materials commonly associated with asbestos use in pre-1980 construction.
Step 3: AHERA-Compliant Bulk Sample Collection
Where suspect materials are identified, our inspector collects bulk samples following EPA/AHERA protocols, using proper protective equipment and immediate containment to prevent fiber release.
Step 4: Accredited Laboratory Analysis
Samples are submitted to our accredited third-party laboratory for Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) analysis — the EPA-recommended method per EPA Method 600/R-93/116. Results typically return within 24–48 business hours.
Step 5: Written Inspection Report
You receive a complete report including: an inventory of all materials sampled; laboratory results; photographs of each sample location; a site diagram; condition assessment; and specific recommendations for next steps.
Step 6: Remediation Guidance & Clearance Testing
If ACM is identified, we provide written recommendations from in-place management to full abatement. After any remediation by a licensed contractor, AirWell can perform post-remediation clearance air testing to confirm the area is safe.
Who We Serve
Homeowners Buying or Selling a Property
If your home was built before 1980, asbestos-containing materials may be present in flooring, insulation, roofing, or drywall compound. For buyers, an asbestos inspection provides peace of mind and documentation before closing. For sellers, a pre-listing inspection helps you disclose accurately, negotiate with confidence, and avoid deal-killing surprises during the buyer’s due diligence period.
Property Managers & Landlords
Federal and state regulations place ongoing compliance obligations on property owners. Our inspections help document the presence or absence of asbestos in multi-unit residential and commercial buildings, support operations and maintenance plans, and demonstrate due diligence to tenants, insurers, and regulators.
Contractors & Remodelers
Before breaking ground on any renovation, addition, or demolition in a pre-1980 building, OSHA requires contractors to determine whether asbestos is present. An AirWell pre-renovation inspection gives you the documentation you need — and protects you from liability and project shutdowns.
Does a Home Seller Have to Disclose Asbestos?
In most states, sellers are required to disclose the presence of known hazardous materials, including asbestos. In New Mexico, Colorado, and Oklahoma, sellers are generally required to disclose known defects that could materially affect the property’s value or the health and safety of occupants.
Importantly, sellers may not always know whether asbestos is present — which is why a professional pre-listing inspection is so valuable. An AirWell inspection before you list your property removes ambiguity, satisfies disclosure obligations, and gives buyers confidence in the transaction.
For buyers purchasing homes built before 1980, requesting an asbestos inspection as part of due diligence is strongly recommended.
Is It Legal to Remodel a Home That Contains Asbestos?
Remodeling a home with asbestos-containing materials is legal, but requires careful planning and strict adherence to safety regulations. Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1101 and EPA NESHAP regulations, contractors must determine whether asbestos is present before any renovation or demolition that may disturb suspect materials.
If asbestos is confirmed, the following steps are required:
- Notify the appropriate state environmental agency (required in most states prior to renovation or demolition)
- Engage a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to safely remove or encapsulate ACM
- Obtain post-remediation clearance air testing before re-occupying the work area
AirWell provides the pre-renovation inspection documentation that contractors, permit offices, and state agencies require to proceed legally and safely.
Why Do I Need an Asbestos Inspection?
An asbestos inspection is essential to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials — especially before demolition, renovation, or a real estate transaction. Certified inspections provide:
- Legal protection: Documentation that you met your pre-renovation, disclosure, or compliance obligations under OSHA, EPA, and state law
- Health protection: Identification of ACM before fibers can be released during construction work or natural material deterioration
- Transaction confidence: Clear written results that support real estate negotiations, disclosures, and title insurance requirements
- Post-remediation clearance: AirWell also provides air clearance testing after abatement, demolition, or remodeling activities to confirm the area is safe
Our certified inspectors deliver a complete written report with actionable guidance tailored to your property and situation — not just a pass/fail result.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos Inspections
What is an asbestos inspection?
An asbestos inspection is a professional examination of a building by a certified inspector to identify materials that may contain asbestos. The process involves a visual survey, collection of bulk material samples, and laboratory analysis using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) to confirm the presence or absence of asbestos fibers.
How long does an asbestos inspection take?
Most residential asbestos inspections take 2 to 4 hours on-site, depending on property size and number of suspect materials. Laboratory analysis typically takes 24 to 48 business hours, after which AirWell prepares and delivers your written report.
How much does an asbestos inspection cost?
The cost depends on property size, number of samples required, and location. Contact AirWell at (888) 541-8551 for a specific quote for your property and situation.
Do I need an asbestos inspection before renovating?
Yes. Federal OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1926.1101) require contractors to determine whether asbestos is present before disturbing building materials in structures built before 1980. An inspection before any renovation, addition, or demolition protects workers, occupants, and the property owner from liability.
What happens if asbestos is found during an inspection?
AirWell delivers a written report documenting each material’s location, type, and condition, with a tailored remediation recommendation based on risk level. Options range from in-place management to encapsulation or full professional abatement.
Is asbestos dangerous if it is not disturbed?
Asbestos-containing materials in good condition and left undisturbed generally do not release fibers and may not pose an immediate health risk. The danger arises when materials deteriorate or are disturbed. A certified inspector can assess whether materials need management or removal.
What Happens If Asbestos Is Discovered During an Inspection?
If asbestos is found, AirWell provides a detailed written report including the location, type, and condition of each identified ACM, along with specific recommendations based on material condition and disturbance risk:
- In-place management (O&M): If the material is in good condition and will not be disturbed, an operations and maintenance plan with ongoing monitoring may be sufficient.
- Encapsulation: ACM in accessible but deteriorating condition may be sealed with a specialized coating to prevent fiber release without full removal.
- Abatement (removal): Damaged, friable, or ACM scheduled for disturbance must be professionally removed by a licensed abatement contractor following EPA and state guidelines.
After any abatement work is completed, AirWell can perform post-remediation clearance air testing to confirm the area is safe for re-occupancy and document regulatory compliance.
Service Areas
AirWell provides professional asbestos inspection services across New Mexico, Colorado, and Oklahoma. Our primary service areas include:
- New Mexico: Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, Las Cruces, Taos, and communities throughout NM
- Colorado: Denver, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Boulder, Fort Collins, and across the Front Range and beyond
- Oklahoma: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Edmond, Broken Arrow, and statewide
For properties outside our primary service area, ask about our remote indoor wellness consultation — a thorough assessment conducted via video walkthrough and guided self-documentation, offering a nearly as precise and thorough solution as our in-person assessments.
How Are Asbestos Samples Analyzed?
AirWell submits all bulk samples to an accredited third-party laboratory for analysis. The primary method is Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) — the EPA-recommended standard for bulk asbestos identification per EPA Method 600/R-93/116.
For more complex samples or air quality assessment, laboratories may also use:
- Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM): Used for airborne fiber counts in occupational settings per OSHA and NIOSH methods
- Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM): The most sensitive analytical method, used when highest precision is required or when chrysotile fibers are suspected in very low concentrations
What Will My Asbestos Inspection Report Include?
Every AirWell inspection report is a complete professional document that provides everything you need to take action, meet compliance requirements, or proceed with a real estate transaction. Your report includes:
- Complete inventory of all materials sampled, with exact locations and descriptions
- Laboratory results including asbestos type and percentage detected (if present)
- Photographs of each sample location
- Site diagram showing sample locations throughout the property
- Condition assessment of each identified asbestos-containing material
- Specific written recommendations for management, encapsulation, or abatement
- Chain-of-custody documentation for all laboratory submissions
Reports are typically delivered within 24–48 hours of receiving laboratory results. Rush delivery is available for time-sensitive real estate transactions or pending renovation permits.
How do I know if my home has asbestos?
There is no way to identify asbestos by sight alone. Asbestos was used in over 3,000 building products, most commonly in homes built between 1940 and 1980. The only reliable way to determine if materials contain asbestos is laboratory testing of bulk samples collected by a certified professional inspector.
What is the difference between asbestos inspection and asbestos testing?
An asbestos inspection is a comprehensive assessment including a visual survey, sampling strategy, and written report with recommendations. Asbestos testing refers specifically to laboratory analysis of collected samples. A full inspection includes testing, but testing alone may miss materials or provide incomplete documentation for legal or real estate purposes.
Are AirWell inspectors EPA certified?
Yes. All AirWell field inspectors hold current EPA/AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) certification as required by 40 CFR Part 763. AHERA certification requires formal training, examination, and annual refresher courses to ensure compliance with current regulatory standards and sampling protocols.
Can I test for asbestos myself?
DIY asbestos test kits are sold commercially, but are not recommended. Collecting samples without proper PPE can release asbestos fibers and create a health hazard. DIY results also lack the chain-of-custody documentation required for legal, insurance, or real estate purposes. Always use a certified inspector.
How soon will I receive my inspection report?
Laboratory analysis typically takes 24 to 48 business hours. Your complete written report is delivered promptly after results are received. Rush analysis is available for time-sensitive situations such as pre-closing real estate inspections or pending renovation permits.
Related Services
Mold Inspection Services
Lead Inspection Services
Post-Remediation Verification
Schedule Your Asbestos Inspection Today
Protecting your home, your tenants, or your job site starts with knowing what you are dealing with. AirWell’s certified inspectors provide fast, thorough, and fully documented asbestos inspections across New Mexico, Colorado, and Oklahoma — with accredited lab results and a clear written report delivered within 24–48 hours.
Call us: (888) 541-8551
Or use the contact form below to request a quote. We respond within one business day.
Serving Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Denver, Colorado Springs, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and surrounding areas across NM, CO & OK.