How Asbestos Inspections Protect the Public in Winchester, VA
Many older homes in historic Winchester, VA are known to have asbestos-containing materials. Older homes on Cecil Street, National Avenue, Loudoun Street, Cameron Street and Highland Avenue have recently undergone asbestos inspections leading to an asbestos removal or abatement done to these homes.
The Inspections and Code Enforcement Department utilizes codes and ordinances to enforce health and safety standards for buildings in Winchester, VA. The City of Winchester, VA is always trying to improve the overall quality of life for the residents and businesses of its city. The Spot Blight Abatement Program identifies condemned or vacant, unsafe properties which can be rehabilitated or refurbished to improve the neighborhood safety.
These blighted properties necessitate asbestos inspections before any construction work can be done. A blighted property is one that endangers the safety, health, and welfare of the public when the structure on a property is deteriorated, dilapidated or violates health and safety standards. Once the home has an asbestos inspection with positive results for asbestos-containing materials, a permit is required from the City of Winchester, VA for any asbestos removal or abatement.
People who take it upon themselves to forfeit an asbestos inspection for their older homes in Winchester, VA are taking a chance of placing family members at a higher risk for asbestos-related health issues. Homeowners who know the age of their home in Winchester, VA and know materials within their home might contain asbestos should always have an asbestos inspection before tearing their house apart to remodel.
Disturbing materials containing asbestos releases asbestos fibers into the air which can be inhaled and carried into the lungs and can cause fibrotic lung disease (asbestosis) and affect the lining of the chest cavity (pleura).
The removal and disturbances of asbestos-containing materials for structures built prior to 1985 are regulated by the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. A permit is required by the City of Winchester, VA for most asbestos removal or abatement. Under Virginia regulations, a notification is required on any demolition projects regardless if asbestos-containing materials are present and for projects that are greater than ten linear or ten square feet.
If you are in doubt as to rather or not your Winchester, VA home has any asbestos-containing materials such as popcorn ceilings, insulation, or flooring tiles, call Envirotex, your asbestos inspection professional in Winchester, VA and have them do a complete inspection of your home.
