Asbestos was once considered a “miracle material” because of its fire resistance, durability, and insulating properties. It was commonly used in residential construction throughout the 20th century, including in many homes across Connecticut. However, we now know that asbestos can pose serious health risks when disturbed, making it a major concern for homeowners, buyers, and sellers—especially in older properties.
If you own a home or are in the market for one, understanding asbestos—where it’s found, the dangers it poses, and the proper ways to handle it—can help you make informed real estate decisions.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials such as insulation, roofing, and flooring. The issue? When these materials are disturbed—through renovations, aging, or damage—tiny asbestos fibers can become airborne. When inhaled, these fibers can lead to severe health issues, including:
• Asbestosis – A lung disease that causes scarring and breathing difficulties.
- • Lung Cancer – Long-term asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, especially for smokers.
- • Mesothelioma – A rare and aggressive cancer almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure.
Because of these risks, asbestos is heavily regulated today. However, thousands of Connecticut homes built before the 1980s still contain asbestos materials, making it an important issue for homeowners, sellers, and buyers alike.
Where Is Asbestos Found in Connecticut Homes?
Connecticut has a large inventory of older homes, particularly in historic towns like Glastonbury, Manchester, Tolland, Colchester, and Marlborough. If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance asbestos-containing materials were used in its construction. Common locations include:
- Attic and pipe insulation (especially in colonial-style homes with oil heat)
- Popcorn ceilings and ceiling tiles
- Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives
- Drywall joint compounds
- Roofing and siding shingles (common in older Connecticut capes and ranches)
- Boiler and duct insulation
Since asbestos is not always visible, a professional asbestos inspection is the only way to know for sure if it’s present in a home.
How to Handle Asbestos in a Connecticut Home
1. Do Not Disturb It
If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and undisturbed, they typically do not pose a risk. The danger comes when the materials are damaged or removed improperly. Sealing or encapsulating asbestos is sometimes a safer option than removal.
2. Get a Professional Asbestos Inspection
A standard home inspection in Connecticut does not test for asbestos. If you suspect asbestos in a home you are buying or selling, you should hire a licensed asbestos inspector.
Find a Connecticut-licensed asbestos inspector:
The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) maintains a list of licensed asbestos consultants. You can find more information here or call (860) 509-7367.
3. Hire a Licensed Asbestos Abatement Contractor
If asbestos must be removed—due to damage, renovations, or safety concerns—Connecticut law requires the work to be done by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. Improper removal can create serious health risks and legal liabilities.
Find a licensed asbestos removal professional in Connecticut:
Visit the CT Department of Public Health’s Asbestos Program website or check with your local health department for a list of approved contractors.
4. Asbestos Disclosure When Selling a Home in Connecticut
In Connecticut, homeowners are required to complete a Residential Property Condition Disclosure Report when selling their home. If you are aware of asbestos in your home, you must disclose it.
However, if you don’t know whether your home contains asbestos, you are not required to have it tested before selling. That said, transparency is always the best practice to avoid potential issues during the transaction.
Connecticut Resources for Asbestos Removal & Assistance
If asbestos abatement is necessary, Connecticut offers some financial assistance programs to help homeowners with removal costs:
Rehabilitation Loans & Grants: Some Connecticut towns offer home improvement loans or grants that may cover asbestos removal. Check with your local housing authority or town hall.
Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA): CHFA provides financing programs for home repairs, including health and safety improvements. Visit www.chfa.org for details.
Final Thoughts: What Homeowners, Buyers, and Sellers Need to Know
- If you’re a homeowner: Asbestos doesn’t always mean trouble, but if you’re planning renovations or selling, it’s worth knowing if it’s in your home.
- If you’re a buyer: Don’t assume a home is asbestos-free just because it wasn’t disclosed. If the home was built before 1980, an asbestos inspection is worth considering.
- If you’re a seller: Transparency is key. If you know about asbestos, disclose it. If you’re unsure, talk to a real estate professional about your options.