As estate agents, we are often asked: what does it mean when a property is asbestos-safe? And how is that different from asbestos-free?
A property is asbestos-free when all materials containing asbestos have been found, analysed and completely removed. This means there is no longer any risk of exposure and the risk of health problems is reduced. An asbestos-free property is the result of thorough asbestos removal, in which certified professionals have taken out all hazardous materials. Although this is the safest option, it can be a time-consuming and costly process. An asbestos-free property does help the sale, though, as its value increases when it is considered asbestos-free.
A property is asbestos-safe when the asbestos present poses no immediate risk as long as it is not ‘disturbed’. In this case the asbestos is not removed, but carefully managed and monitored. Regular maintenance is important to prevent the material from deteriorating and posing a health risk after all. Above all, the asbestos must not be exposed to wear or damage. In addition, there must be an asbestos management plan available that sets out how and how often the material is checked.
For an asbestos-safe property where the asbestos materials are not removed, the cost is lower, since the materials are managed rather than removed.
When buying a home, it is important to know whether asbestos is present. Since 2022, an asbestos certificate (asbestattest) has been compulsory in Flanders for buildings constructed before 2001. The certificate shows where asbestos is present and in what form: asbestos-free, asbestos-safe or not asbestos-safe.
It is also important to know that, when you buy a property, the certificate will never say ‘asbestos-free’ unless a destructive inspection has been carried out by an accredited asbestos expert. Because asbestos inspectors always work non-destructively and can only inspect visible materials, most asbestos-safe certificates state: ‘Asbestos-safe, but possibly not asbestos-free.’
As a buyer or seller, it is worth considering whether it pays to make a home asbestos-free. The choice often depends on the condition of the asbestos, the planned renovations and your budget.
We are not asbestos experts, but at Immo Jan Stas we are happy to advise you on the asbestos certificate, and our asbestos inspectors are ready to inspect your home.
