Why Asbestos Still Matters in Calgary Homes
Asbestos was widely used in Canadian homes before the 1990s, especially in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling textures, and even siding. However, many Calgary homeowners don’t realize it could still be hidden behind walls or under flooring. In older homes, it’s not uncommon to find asbestos in areas that were never renovated or disturbed. Therefore, identifying it before listing a property is crucial.
Buyers today are more informed than ever. They know the risks asbestos poses and often walk away from deals where asbestos is suspected but unresolved. Consequently, removing asbestos from your home doesn’t just reduce a health risk. It makes your property far more attractive to potential buyers.
The Link Between Health and Property Value
When people shop for homes, health is top of mind. Above all, they want to feel confident that the home won’t bring hidden dangers. Asbestos doesn’t cause problems unless it’s disturbed, but if a buyer knows it’s there, they’re likely to factor in removal costs or request a price drop.
On the other hand, if a home has undergone certified asbestos removal, it gives the buyer peace of mind. That is to say, your home is not just safe—it’s already taken care of a major issue. This can influence offers positively, especially in competitive markets where clean inspection reports can make or break a sale.
Renovation-Ready Homes Are More Valuable
Many buyers look for move-in ready homes. Similarly, investors want houses they can renovate and flip quickly. Asbestos creates an obstacle either way. During renovations, even a small amount of asbestos can halt the project while specialists are brought in. That slows timelines, adds unexpected expenses, and may even require permits and inspections.
As a result, having asbestos removed ahead of time eliminates surprises during renovation. In Calgary’s current market, where many older homes are being remodeled, homes free of asbestos are naturally more desirable. They save time and reduce liability, which translates into real value.
The Emotional Side of Selling a Home
Selling a home is not just a business transaction. For most people, it’s emotional. You want to feel proud of what you’re passing on. Likewise, buyers want to feel they’re stepping into a clean, well-maintained space. Knowing asbestos was found and dealt with properly can create a sense of transparency and trust between seller and buyer.
In addition, disclosure laws in Alberta require sellers to report known asbestos. If you ignore it and a buyer finds out later, it could lead to legal or financial issues. To avoid that, it’s smarter to act early. If you’re unsure about where asbestos might exist, it may be worth learning more about Asbestos Removal in Calgary and getting an assessment before listing.
How Asbestos Removal Impacts Appraisal and Insurance
Appraisers look at more than just square footage and location. They also assess the health and condition of materials in the home. If asbestos is present, particularly in friable (easily crumbled) form, it’s a red flag. It could lower your appraised value, sometimes significantly. Conversely, removal documents or testing reports can help maintain or boost the assessed worth of your home.
Meanwhile, some insurance providers consider asbestos a liability. That means premiums can be higher, or certain coverage could be denied. If asbestos is removed before you list or refinance, you might see improved insurance options, which adds another layer of value for a future buyer or lender.
Timing Matters: When to Remove Asbestos
Many homeowners wait until they’re ready to sell to think about asbestos. However, this often leads to a rushed and stressful process. During real estate transactions, everything moves quickly. Buyers want quick possession. Inspectors are on tight schedules. Waiting until the last minute to deal with asbestos can delay everything and cost more.
To clarify, asbestos removal doesn’t always take a long time. In some cases, it can be done in a matter of days, especially if the contamination is minimal. But planning ahead means you can coordinate with your renovation plans or real estate timeline, making the process smoother and potentially cheaper.
An Investment That Pays Off Quietly
Removing asbestos isn’t flashy like installing new countertops or landscaping a front yard. Still, it’s often more valuable in the long term. Most importantly, it removes a silent barrier to a clean home sale. Once it’s gone, you’re free to market your home as safe, clean, and ready for the future.
Furthermore, buyers are becoming more environmentally and health-conscious. Likewise, many lenders are too. So having the documentation to show that asbestos was safely removed, according to local regulations, makes your home more future-proof in a changing market.
If you are unsure about the process or need guidance, it’s a good idea to get in touch with a local professional who can walk you through the testing and removal options available in Calgary.
What Buyers Think About Asbestos
People buying homes are doing more research than ever. They read inspection reports carefully. They Google risks. And when they see the word “asbestos,” it often becomes a point of concern. For instance, even if the asbestos is sealed or in good condition, a buyer might feel hesitant to take on the risk.
That doesn’t mean every buyer will walk away. However, having proof that asbestos was found and professionally removed removes this worry altogether. In the same vein, it gives buyers the confidence to move forward without asking for discounts or additional contingencies. That confidence makes for smoother negotiations and faster sales.
Tips for Homeowners Planning Asbestos Removal
If you’re thinking about selling your home or starting renovations, here are a few practical steps:
- Start with an asbestos inspection if your home was built before the 1990s. In many Calgary neighborhoods, that includes bungalows, townhouses, and even some condos.
- Prioritize high-risk areas like attic insulation, ceiling texture (popcorn ceilings), vinyl flooring, and old duct insulation.
- Schedule the removal in off-peak seasons if possible. Spring and fall can be ideal for timing, since demand is usually lower and turnaround times are faster.
- Ask for documentation after removal, including a clearance letter. That paperwork will be useful during listing, appraisal, or inspection.
These steps might seem small, but collectively, they can make a meaningful difference in the value of your home when it hits the market.
Selling a Rental or Investment Property
If you own a rental in Calgary, the stakes can be higher. Tenants have a right to a safe living space. Likewise, provincial laws around environmental hazards apply to landlords just as they do homeowners. If asbestos is discovered during a routine repair or inspection, you may be responsible for immediate removal or tenant relocation.
That can become costly and complex if handled at the last minute. However, proactive removal now prevents emergency expenses later. Also, if you’re planning to sell your rental property, buyers will want to see that it’s compliant with health and safety standards.
By addressing asbestos issues now, you reduce your legal exposure, increase the property’s attractiveness, and protect both your income and your reputation.
Bonus Insight: Don’t Rely on Visual Checks
One overlooked point is that you cannot always see asbestos. For example, it could be buried in drywall compound, hiding under tile, or mixed into attic insulation. Therefore, assuming your home is clear just because it “looks modern” is a mistake.
Even minor renovations—like removing a popcorn ceiling or pulling up floor tiles—can expose dangerous fibers. Testing is inexpensive and non-invasive, which makes it a smart first step before beginning any work, even cosmetic.
If you’re planning to sell or upgrade your home and it’s more than a few decades old, treating asbestos as a “checklist item” could save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
FAQ
What year was asbestos banned in homes in Canada?
Asbestos was not fully banned in Canada until 2018, but most home construction stopped using it in the late 1980s. Homes built before 1990 are more likely to contain asbestos materials.
Can asbestos affect my home insurance in Calgary?
Yes, some insurance providers view asbestos as a liability. It can result in higher premiums or limited coverage unless it is professionally removed.
How long does asbestos removal usually take?
The timeline depends on the amount and location of the asbestos. Small projects might take a day or two, while larger jobs can last over a week. Advance planning helps reduce delays.
Will removing asbestos improve my resale value?
While it may not increase the sale price directly, it removes a major barrier for potential buyers. This can lead to quicker sales and fewer price negotiations.
Is asbestos removal always necessary before selling?
It’s not legally required in every case, but disclosure is. If asbestos is known and left in place, it must be disclosed to buyers, which can reduce interest or sale price.
