Asbestos removal in Oakville is a big responsibility to take on. You must make sure that the entire process is aligned with health and safety regulations, as well as government requirements. Then there is a question of liability as well - as a landlord, who is responsible for the safe removal of asbestos-containing materials in a rental property. Whether it’s commercial or residential, the expectation is that landlords are providing a safe habitable environment for their tenants, meaning a space without hazards like asbestos. If you have one or more rental properties in the Oakville and Greater Toronto Area, contact Inch By Inch Inspections to learn about our home air quality testing, asbestos removal, and designated substance survey services. Our team of experienced technicians is trusted by property owners throughout the region for reliable inspection and abatement services.
Here are some of the basics you should know as a landlord about asbestos and your liability.
Designated Substances in Ontario
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In Ontario, asbestos is classified as a designated substance under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). This classification places legal obligations on property owners, especially in situations where tenants or workers may be exposed to the substance. Any renovation, demolition, or disturbance of materials that may contain asbestos must be preceded by a designated substance survey. If asbestos is found, it must be safely removed or contained by a qualified abatement contractor. Failure to comply can lead to serious health risks and legal consequences. Inch By Inch Inspections offers prompt, reliable, and comprehensive designated substance surveys, so you can accurately assess risks on your property and understand your liabilities as well as your responsibilities.
When to Remove Asbestos
While asbestos in good condition and left undisturbed poses minimal immediate risk, issues arise when these materials begin to degrade, or if work on the property might release harmful fibres into the air. Landlords should schedule home air quality testing to determine if fibres are present in the air, particularly after a tenant reports respiratory symptoms or there’s been recent maintenance activity. If asbestos is discovered and deemed hazardous, landlords are responsible for hiring professionals to complete asbestos removal in Oakville to restore the safety of the environment.
Signs You May Need Asbestos Removal
There are a few red flags that indicate asbestos materials may have become unsafe, such as visible deterioration, old or crumbling insulation around pipes, damaged ceiling tiles, or disturbed wallboard. If a tenant observes these signs or raises concerns about indoor air quality, you should act promptly. Delaying action can worsen the condition and increase the cost of asbestos removal in Oakville. Partnering with experienced inspectors like those at Inch By Inch Inspections can help you identify risks early with accurate home air quality testing and visual assessments.
What to Do If a Tenant Suspects Asbestos
If a tenant reports suspected asbestos, the first step is to investigate. Do not attempt to test or remove the material yourself. Instead, contact Inch By Inch Inspections, a certified asbestos inspection company, to confirm the presence and condition of the material. Provide tenants with updates and explain the safety measures being taken. Ensure that any abatement process is completed by licensed contractors, and keep documentation of all testing and remediation work to protect yourself from liability claims.
Streamline Asbestos Removal in Oakville with the Experts
Inch By Inch Inspections is proud to help property owners navigate the challenges of asbestos with dependable testing, transparent reporting, and safe abatement. Safeguard your rental properties and maintain compliance by taking proactive steps to manage asbestos before it becomes a liability.
