Does Asbestos Removal Happen Before or After Restoration?

Restoration work, like tearing out wet drywall or sanding damaged surfaces, can disturb asbestos fibers if that material is present. Those fibers become airborne and pose serious health risks when inhaled. So the removal step must happen before any demolition or repair begins.

You need a professional asbestos abatement service to test and remove the material. They follow strict safety protocols to contain and dispose of it properly. Only after the area tests clear should you bring in the pros for the water damage restoration work.

During abatement, the pros seal off the work area with plastic sheeting and use negative air pressure to keep fibers from spreading. They wear protective gear and wet the materials to minimize dust. The removed asbestos goes into special disposal bags and is taken to an approved landfill.

After removal, the area gets a final inspection to confirm no fibers remain. That clearance is your green light to proceed with restoration. You should keep the documentation from that inspection for your records.

If you suspect asbestos, do not start any cleanup or demolition. Seal off the area and keep family members away. See a doctor if you feel unwell after potential exposure. Your health is the priority.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if asbestos removal is included in your water damage claim. Some policies cover abatement as part of the restoration, while others do not. Knowing your coverage helps you plan the next steps.