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Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate that looks like long, thin, or curled crystals. Most people can’t spot it with the naked eye. If your home was built before 1989, you should get an inspection to rule out its presence.

Though there aren't generally free testing services available, you can find testing kits online for as little as $30 per unit. Depending on the type of kit you buy, prices usually include lab fees, return shipping, consultation, sampling media, and, of course, your results.

However, the results aren’t as accurate or detailed compared to professional testing. Plus, you risk breathing in the fibers when taking a sample or exposing your home to particles. We recommend hiring a professional to test for asbestos.

Receiving asbestos test results takes one to seven days, but different labs offer varying turnaround times. Some consider a rush job any time within a week, while others complete expedited orders within 24 hours. Non-rush jobs can take as long as two weeks.

Home insurance doesn't often cover asbestos testing and removal. Many policies have a clause called a "pollution exclusion," which means they do not cover indoor pollutants like asbestos. However, your insurance company might cover something like asbestos siding removal costs if it is released due to things beyond your control, such as storm damage.

If a DIY project or accident in your home releases harmful fibers, you must pay for the test and removal.

Yes, you can legally inspect and remove asbestos in your house as long as it's a single-family home and not a multi-family unit. However, the EPA strongly recommends hiring an asbestos abatement pro since testing can be dangerous.

Pros have all the right tools and safety equipment, and you risk breathing in the fibers by taking samples yourself. They also know how to collect samples and safely dispose of materials properly.