Renting a home may appear hassle-free, but hidden dangers, such as asbestos, could threaten tenant safety. This dangerous substance, frequently found in construction materials prior to the 1980s, can present major health dangers when disrupted. Renters living in older homes could be unknowingly exposed, potentially resulting in severe long-term health problems.
Understanding its dangers and taking proactive measures are essential for ensuring that your rental property remains a safe living space.
In this article, we’ll explore how tenants can protect themselves from harm and ensure landlords uphold safe living conditions.
How Asbestos Becomes a Risk in Rental Properties
Asbestos is present in many building materials, including insulation, roofing, floor tiles, and pipe coatings, particularly in older rental properties. Routine wear and tear, renovations, or damage can disturb these materials, causing asbestos fibers to become airborne. Even simple tasks, like sanding or drilling, may release fibers into the air. Once inhaled, these fibers lodge in the lungs, potentially leading to severe respiratory illnesses.
According to Angi, the average cost of asbestos removal is $2,214. Prices range from $450 to $6,000 based on the removal method, asbestos amount, necessary repairs, and area size. The cost per square foot typically falls between $5 and $20.
Older properties are particularly at risk, as the materials may degrade over time, increasing the likelihood of fiber release. Testing and disposal costs can significantly increase total expenses, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance for health.
Health Risks Associated with the Exposure
Exposure to asbestos fibers is linked to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Symptoms of these conditions often take decades to manifest, as the latency period can range from 30 to 40 years.
Even short-term exposure can be dangerous, as the mineral’s fibers may become embedded in lung tissue, leading to inflammation and scarring. The severity of health risks depends on the amount and duration of exposure, but any level of contact is potentially harmful.
The Cleveland Clinic and WHO state that up to 20% of exposed individuals may develop health conditions called asbestosis, but not everyone will. Other potential diseases include lung cancer, interstitial lung disease, and pleural effusion.
Is there a safe level of asbestos exposure, or should any exposure be a concern?
There is no safe exposure level; even minimal contact can result in severe health risks like lung cancer or mesothelioma. The moneral’s fibers can get trapped in the lungs, leading to lasting harm. Therefore, any suspected asbestos should be treated as hazardous, and it is essential to seek professional guidance.
Legal Responsibilities of Landlords
Landlords are legally obligated to ensure a safe living environment, which includes managing the mineral’s risks. If it is suspected, they must arrange for certified professionals to inspect and assess the situation. Nolo reports many states have specific regulations requiring landlords to disclose these asbestos hazards to tenants, emphasizing transparency and tenant safety.
Failure to comply with these disclosure laws can lead to varying penalties, including fines, lawsuits, and potential loss of rental licenses. Civil penalties can reach up to $21,699 per violation, along with claims for actual damages.
Moreover, when repairs or renovations disturb the materials, landlords must follow safety guidelines to prevent tenant exposure. Neglecting these responsibilities can result in legal repercussions, including liability for health issues linked to its exposure.
Can a landlord evict tenants for raising asbestos concerns or requesting inspections?
Landlords are not legally permitted to evict tenants for raising the mineral’s concerns or requesting inspections, as tenant protection laws prevent retaliatory actions. Tenants deserve a safe living environment; landlords must take it seriously and address issues without penalizing tenants for reporting hazards.
What Tenants Can Do if They Suspect Asbestos in Their Rental
If tenants suspect asbestos, they should avoid disturbing any potential sources and notify the landlord in writing. Requesting a professional inspection by an accredited expert is an important next step.
Tenants may also contact local health or environmental agencies for guidance. Keeping records of all communications, inspection reports, and any related correspondence helps protect tenant rights. It is crucial not to attempt the removal or repairs personally, as disturbing the material could worsen the situation.
What immediate steps should I take if asbestos is found in my rental unit?
If you suspect it in your rental unit, avoid disturbing the material and inspect it for signs of damage. Do not touch or scrape it, as this can release harmful fibers. Immediately contact your landlord to report your concerns, especially if the material appears broken. Remember, landlords must comply with safety regulations and may need to consult licensed professionals for testing and removal.
Can I Sue for Asbestos Exposure? Legal Options for Renters
If tenants develop health issues as a result of its exposure, they often wonder: can I sue for asbestos exposure? Yes, tenants may have legal grounds to sue landlords who failed to disclose their risks or neglected necessary maintenance procedures.
Tenants can seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Legal action typically involves proving that the landlord’s negligence directly contributed to the exposure and subsequent health problems. Consulting an attorney with asbestos litigation experience is essential for assessing case merits and determining whether a claim is justified.
According to TorHoerman Law, certain elements must be established to file a personal injury lawsuit for the mineral’s exposure. First, plaintiffs must show the defendant, typically the landlord, owed a duty of care for a safe, asbestos-free environment. Next, plaintiffs must demonstrate this duty was breached, establish a causal link to the exposure, and provide evidence of damages.
Preventive Measures Renters Can Take to Protect Themselves
Tenants can minimize asbestos risks by avoiding actions that could disturb materials likely to contain it, such as insulation or old tiles. Inquiring about the property’s history, especially if built before the 1980s, can help assess potential risks.
Regularly inspecting the rental unit for damage to walls, ceilings, or pipes can identify signs of the mineral’s deterioration. Reporting any concerns to the landlord immediately and requesting a professional evaluation can help prevent exposure.
However, broader compliance issues are evident in federal buildings. According to the Government Accountability Office, 66.7% of US federal buildings have failed to undergo their routine five-year asbestos inspections. Furthermore, 52% of these buildings have not been inspected for asbestos presence in over a decade.
Ensuring Tenant Safety Through Awareness
The risks of asbestos exposure in rental properties are significant, particularly in older homes where the materials may still be present. Tenants need to be informed of the dangers, understand their legal rights, and take immediate action if it is suspected. Landlords play a crucial role in ensuring tenant safety by complying with legal obligations for its management.
The post Is Your Rental Home Safe: The Dangers of Asbestos Exposure for Tenants appeared first on Information Nigeria.
