Asbestos in Schools: What Damage Restoration Pros Face

Many schools built before the 1980s used asbestos in ceiling tiles, floor tiles, pipe insulation, and wallboard. Water damage can soak these materials, making them brittle and prone to crumbling. When that happens, tiny fibers can become airborne and pose a health risk.

You might not see the danger. Asbestos fibers are invisible to the naked eye. If your school has a leak or flooding, treat any damaged building material as potentially hazardous. Local water damage pros know to check for asbestos before starting any cleanup work.

If you are a teacher or administrator, your first step is to evacuate the area and shut off the water source if possible. Do not attempt to clean up debris yourself. Even sweeping can send asbestos fibers into the air.

Call a professional who can assess the situation safely. Your school district likely has a designated plan for hazardous materials. Follow that plan and keep everyone out until the pros give the all-clear. Your health and the health of students comes first.

Asbestos abatement can be costly, and insurance coverage varies widely. Some policies cover the cost of cleanup, while others exclude asbestos-related work. You should check your policy and talk to your insurance company about what is included.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep detailed records of the damage and any testing results. If you live in Bonita Springs, you might face unique challenges with humidity and storms, but the same safety rules apply everywhere.