If you suspect a home may contain asbestos, who should you call?

The best choice in this scenario is to contact an inspector, specifically a certified home inspector or an asbestos inspector. Inspectors are trained to identify hazardous materials, including asbestos, and can conduct proper testing to determine if it is present in the home.

They have the expertise to assess the condition of materials that may contain asbestos, understanding the risks involved and the best practices for handling any found materials. This step is crucial because asbestos poses serious health risks if disturbed or improperly removed.

While a broker or salesperson may have general knowledge about real estate, they typically lack the specialized training required to accurately assess and handle potential asbestos issues. An encapsulator is involved in the remediation of asbestos materials but would be contacted after confirmation of asbestos presence by an inspector. Hence, an inspector is the most appropriate professional to involve at this stage to ensure safety and compliance with regulations regarding asbestos.