Do I Need an Asbestos Test Before Remodeling My Home?
If you’re planning to remodel or renovate an older home in Chicago or the suburbs, you might be wondering: Do I really need an asbestos test before starting work?
The short answer — yes, in most cases, especially if your property was built before the 1980s.
Here’s why asbestos testing is essential, what’s legally required in Illinois, and how it protects both your health and your renovation project.
🧱 What Is Asbestos and Why It Matters
Asbestos was once added to thousands of building materials for insulation, durability, and fire resistance.
Even though it’s been banned from new construction for decades, it still exists in many older homes across Chicagoland.
Common asbestos-containing materials include:
9×9 or 12×12 floor tiles
Drywall joint compound
Popcorn or textured ceilings
Pipe wrap and boiler insulation
Siding, roofing, and adhesives
When these materials are cut, drilled, or sanded, asbestos fibers can become airborne and dangerous to inhale. Over time, exposure can lead to serious illnesses like mesothelioma and asbestosis.
⚖️ When Is Asbestos Testing Required in Illinois?
Illinois and local municipalities—including Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties—require asbestos testing before renovation or demolition of older structures.
You’ll likely need testing if:
The property was built before 1990
You’re removing flooring, drywall, insulation, or ceilings
You’re applying for a remodeling or demolition permit
A contractor or building department requests proof of clearance
Even if it’s not legally required, testing is strongly recommended to avoid project delays, fines, or accidental exposure.
🧰 What Happens During an Asbestos Inspection
At Asbestos Testing & Inspection, our licensed inspectors follow a certified process:
Visual Survey – We identify areas likely to contain asbestos.
Sample Collection – Small samples are safely taken from suspect materials.
Lab Analysis – Samples are tested by an accredited laboratory using PLM (Polarized Light Microscopy).
Report & Results – You receive a clear, photo-documented report showing where asbestos was found and what steps to take next.
Standard turnaround is 2–3 business days, with 24–48-hour expedited service available.
💡 Why Testing Before Remodeling Saves Time & Money
Skipping asbestos testing might seem like a shortcut—but it can cost you far more later.
Pre-testing helps you:
Avoid project shutdowns if asbestos is discovered mid-construction
Protect family and worker health
Comply with Illinois EPA and county building regulations
Prevent expensive change orders or emergency abatement
Keep renovation projects on schedule
🏘️ Areas We Serve
We provide licensed asbestos inspections throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including:
Evanston, Skokie, Glenview, Northbrook, Naperville, Aurora, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Waukegan, and Gurnee.
All reports are accepted by local permit offices in Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties.
💬 Common Questions
Do newer homes need asbestos testing?
Homes built after 1990 are lower-risk, but some still contain leftover stock materials that may test positive.
How much does asbestos testing cost?
Residential inspections start at $375, commercial at $550.
See detailed pricing here →
Can I use a DIY asbestos kit?
It’s not recommended. Improper collection can release fibers and lead to inaccurate results. Always hire a licensed Illinois asbestos inspector.
📊 Pricing Snapshot
Service Price Turnaround Residential Inspection $375 2–3 business days Commercial Inspection $550 2–3 business days Additional Samples $75 each — Expedited Results +$25/sample 24–48 hours
No hidden fees. No upselling. Just professional, licensed asbestos testing.
🧾 Bottom Line
If you’re remodeling an older home anywhere in Chicagoland, get an asbestos inspection first.
It protects your investment, your contractors, and your health — while keeping your project compliant with Illinois law.
📞 Call 312-972-2321 or Request an Inspection →
