Asbestos was used in insulation, floor tiles, roof shingles, siding, and pipe wrapping. Intact asbestos in good condition (non-friable) is generally not hazardous, but damaged or deteriorating asbestos (friable) can release dangerous fibers. Asbestos abatement—removal or encapsulation—must be performed by licensed professionals. Sellers must disclose known asbestos. Commercial property owners must comply with EPA and OSHA regulations regarding asbestos management.
A pre-1980 commercial building has asbestos pipe insulation in the basement. The insulation is intact and undamaged. The seller discloses the presence of asbestos and provides an asbestos management plan. The buyer may choose to have it professionally encapsulated rather than removed, at lower cost.
Know the difference between friable asbestos (can crumble, dangerous) and non-friable (intact, generally safe). Asbestos removal must be done by licensed professionals. For the exam, remember that asbestos is most common in properties built BEFORE 1980 and that the seller must disclose KNOWN asbestos.
Related Terms
Related Concepts
Fair housing laws apply to a broad range of activities related to housing, including sale, rental, financing, and advertising.
Protected classes are groups of people who are legally shielded from discrimination based on specific characteristics.
Violating fair housing laws can lead to significant penalties, including fines, civil liability, and professional discipline.
Many states and localities have fair housing laws that expand upon the protections offered by the federal Fair Housing Act.
The Lead-Based Paint Disclosure is a federally mandated disclosure required for all residential properties built before 1978. Sellers and landlords must disclose known lead-based paint hazards and provide the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home."
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