Our association has been the leading advocate for a reno tax credit to mitigate asbestos in homes.
We have asked the federal and provincial govts to help address the hazards and costs of asbestos.
So far, there has been little interest by elected officials from any of the major political parties.
Asbestos can be found in stucco, drywall, roof shingles, window putty, vinyl floor tiles, wiring, insulation, cement, and more.
WorkSafeBC has established stringent regulations for renovations, demolitions, and handling of materials that may contain asbestos. The costs for testing and removal can be significant:
- Hazmat Survey $600 – $2,000
- Vinyl Floor Tile: $500 – $2,000 per room
- Sheet Vinyl: $2,000 – $5,000 per room
- Transite Siding: $5,000 – $20,000
- Vermiculite: $8,500 – $12,000
- Plaster and Stucco: Up to $30,000
- Drywall: Up to $15,000
Consumers and contractors relied on federal and provincial govts to ensure these products were safe, which was not the case.
In fact, in the 1970’s and 80’s, the federal govt helped install asbestos in our homes. Their Canadian Home Insulation Program (CHIP) offered grants for installation of asbestos insulation such as Zonolite.
Canadian homeowners faced with the costs and potential health hazards of asbestos abatement have posted their support for a tax credit on our website. The topic receives more comments than any other issue.
At election time, when elected officials ask for your support, ask for their support to mitigate toxic materials like asbestos in homes.
For more info, visit https://www.vrba.ca/beware-asbestos-in-home-renovations/
This column is also available in Wednesdays’ Times Colonist.
Visit us at www.vrba.ca and www.careawards.ca. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.