Can You Sell a House With Asbestos in Ohio?
Selling your home is an exciting yet nerve-wracking process. You’re eager to find your new home but anxious about securing the best price for your current property. Will the sale close on time? What will the inspection reveal? Will you lose out on your dream home while you wait for a buyer? If your home was built before the 1980s, you may have another concern — asbestos.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It a Concern?
Asbestos was once hailed as a "miracle material" due to its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. It was widely used in construction until the dangers became apparent. Asbestos fibers, found in insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, and more, can pose serious health risks when disturbed, such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.
It’s important to remember that while asbestos is hazardous when disturbed, it isn’t dangerous when left undisturbed. However, if you're selling a house that may contain asbestos, it’s crucial to know how to handle this material during the process.
Common Places to Find Asbestos in a House
If your home was built before the 1980s, it could contain asbestos in various areas. Common locations where asbestos may be present include:
Insulation around pipes, ducts, and boilers
Flooring tiles (vinyl, rubber, or asphalt)
Roofing materials, shingles, or siding
Ceiling tiles and textured wall paints
Walls and ceilings, especially if they include soundproofing or decorative elements
If you see crumbling materials or suspect asbestos in any of these areas, do not disturb them. Always call an expert for proper handling.
How to Sell a House with Asbestos
It’s not impossible to sell a house with asbestos, but it requires careful planning and transparent communication. Here's how to handle the situation:
1. Get Asbestos Testing
To avoid any surprises later in the process, it’s best to test for asbestos before listing your home. While some at-home testing kits are available, they come with risks. Hiring a certified expert to test and identify the material is the safest approach. Testing costs can range from $50 to $1,200, depending on the type of test and your location.
2. Disclose the Presence of Asbestos
Most states require sellers to disclose known asbestos in the home. Failing to disclose it can result in legal issues down the road. However, disclosing asbestos won’t necessarily deter buyers. Many potential buyers understand that older homes may contain asbestos, and it doesn't automatically mean the sale will fall through.
3. Decide on Abatement or Repairs
You don't have to remove the asbestos before selling, but if it’s in poor condition, it may be worth addressing before listing. You can either:
Seal the Asbestos: In many cases, it's cheaper and safer to seal the asbestos in place rather than removing it. This involves covering the material with a special resin or cloth to prevent exposure.
Remove the Asbestos: If you choose to remove it, hire a licensed professional who is trained in asbestos abatement. Removal can be expensive, with costs reaching up to $15,000 for attic insulation.
Some sellers prefer offering a credit at closing to cover the cost of repairs or abatement instead of handling the work themselves. This gives buyers the flexibility to manage the issue after the sale.
4. Sell “As-Is”
If the idea of dealing with asbestos is too much, selling your home "as-is" might be the best option. This means you won’t make any repairs or remove the asbestos, but you’ll likely have to adjust your asking price. If you're looking for a quick sale, selling for cash could also be a viable route.
Can You Sell a House With Asbestos? Yes, You Can!
Asbestos is a concern, but it doesn't have to prevent you from selling your home. By being proactive, transparent, and working with experts, you can navigate the selling process successfully. With proper testing, disclosure, and the option to offer credits or sell "as-is," you can ensure that the presence of asbestos doesn’t derail your sale.
