NYS Licensed Asbestos inspection & testing
RescueDry offers professional asbestos testing services for residential and commercial properties throughout Long Island, Queens, and Brooklyn. Our team is committed to identifying and assessing asbestos risks, ensuring your property remains safe and compliant with health regulations, providing peace of mind for you and your family.
What we do?
In New York State, ensuring the safety of your home or property involves meticulous asbestos testing and inspection. Asbestos, a hazardous material once commonly used in construction, poses significant health risks if disturbed. At our certified inspection service, we utilize state-of-the-art methods to detect any presence of asbestos, adhering to strict New York State regulations. With our expertise and commitment to safety, you can trust us to thoroughly assess your property and provide peace of mind regarding asbestos hazards.
What's Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance and durability, making it a popular choice in various industries for decades. Often used in construction materials like insulation, roofing, and flooring, asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed, posing serious health risks when inhaled. Exposure to asbestos has been linked to lung diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Despite its once widespread use, asbestos is now heavily regulated due to its hazardous nature, and proper testing and management are crucial to minimizing health hazards associated with its presence.
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Why is Asbestos Hazardous?
Methods of Asbestos Air Sampling
The analysis of asbestos and other fibers utilizes two primary methods:
Phase Contrast Microscopy (PCM), as per NIOSH Method 7400, quantifies asbestos levels in the air and reports results in fibers per cubic centimeter. However, it’s essential to note that PCM analysis isn’t specific to asbestos fibers; it includes all fibers meeting the criteria for fiber determination.
In contrast, Interim Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) Analytical Method, outlined in Appendix A to Subpart E of Part 763, provides specific results for asbestos fibers in the air sample. These results are reported as structures per square millimeter. Typically, TEM analysis is required for final re-occupancy criteria, distinguishing between mandatory and non-mandatory sections for determining completion of response actions.
Bulk Sampling for Asbestos
Various methods are employed for Bulk Asbestos analysis in different materials, each specified by the NYS Dept of Health Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (NYS DOH ELAP). These methods include:
Polarized-Light Microscopy (PLM) for bulk materials (Method 198.1)
PLM for Non-Friable Organically Bound bulk materials (Method 198.6), combining gravimetric-reduction preparation with PLM point-counting
Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) for Non-Friable Organically Bound bulk samples (Method 198.4)
PLM specifically for Sprayed-On Fireproofing Containing Vermiculite (SOF-V) (Method 198.8)
Collaboration between the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Department of Labor has led to the development of the Vermiculite Interim Guidance Document, providing essential guidance on dealing with vermiculite-containing materials.
Why choose RescueDry for Asbestos inspection?
Safe & Effective
Asbestos handling and inspection require strict safety protocols to avoid contamination and exposure. We prioritize safety, using the latest equipment and procedures to protect occupants and workers. RescueDry is well-versed in local, state, and federal regulations regarding asbestos management, ensuring that inspections and recommendations align with legal requirements.
Expertise & Certification
RescueDry employs certified asbestos professionals who are trained to handle inspections safely and thoroughly. Certification ensures that inspectors are knowledgeable about regulations and best practices. We conduct thorough Asbestos inspections that include sample collection, lab testing, and clear reporting on the presence of asbestos. RescueDry offers a detailed process that ensures nothing is overlooked.
Asbestos Inspection Process
Asbestos material and air sampling involve a systematic process for accurate detection. It begins with identifying suspected asbestos-containing areas and carefully collecting material samples while wearing proper protective gear.
Air samples are then taken using specialized equipment during activities that may disturb asbestos. These samples are analyzed in accredited laboratories using microscopy techniques to identify asbestos fibers and assess concentrations.
Results are interpreted to evaluate exposure risks, and if asbestos is confirmed, appropriate mitigation measures are implemented to ensure safety. Strict adherence to safety protocols and regulatory guidelines is crucial throughout the sampling process.
Asbestos is still found in many older homes and buildings across Long Island and NYC—especially in floor tiles, insulation, popcorn ceilings, and pipe wrap. If these materials are disturbed during renovations or repairs, they can release harmful fibers into the air. Our team collects safe, professional samples and sends them to a certified laboratory so you know exactly what you’re dealing with before starting any work.
No—there’s no way to confirm asbestos visually. Two floor tiles or ceiling panels can look identical, but one may contain asbestos and the other may not. That’s why lab testing is the only reliable method. Our inspectors are trained to take proper samples without contaminating your home or exposing your family.
No—we don’t perform asbestos removal or abatement. Our role is to provide independent, accurate testing so you have the facts. If asbestos is present, we’ll guide you on the next steps and can refer you to licensed abatement professionals who handle safe removal. This way, you have unbiased results and peace of mind.
In many cases, asbestos is only hazardous if it’s disturbed and the fibers become airborne. For example, cutting, drilling, or sanding asbestos-containing materials is what poses a risk. If the material is intact and sealed, it may not require removal—but testing is the only way to confirm whether it’s present in the first place.
Most asbestos sampling visits take under an hour, depending on how many areas need to be tested. Once collected, samples are sent to a certified lab, and results are typically available in 2–3 business days. We’ll review the lab report with you and explain exactly what it means for your property.
Asbestos is a natural mineral. It was used in buildings because it stops fire and keeps heat. When it is damaged, the tiny fibers can become airborne. The fibers can be inhaled and then remain in the lungs, causing serious diseases many years later.
Real Results: A study found that asbestos workers exposed to high levels were 10 times more likely to get mesothelioma. This risk is much higher than for those not exposed.
Takeaway: Never touch anything that may have asbestos in it. Call a professional instead.
Asbestos can be found in many areas of houses that were constructed before 1980. It can be found in pipe insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, roof shingles, and cement products. Some drywall compounds and textured paints, like popcorn ceilings, may contain asbestos. Because of its popularity, it can be difficult to find without having to take a professional test.
Real Results: As many as 70% of homes in the US constructed before 1980 are estimated to contain some asbestos.
Takeaway: Consider older homes to contain asbestos until proven otherwise.
The health risks associated with asbestos exposure are lung-related diseases. They can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer, or a rare cancer called mesothelioma. Mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs or belly. These diseases can manifest 20 to 50 years after the initial exposure. Even brief and intense exposures can be risky.
Real Results: The CDC reports over 2,500 new mesothelioma cases in the US each year. Most of these cases are linked to asbestos.
Takeaway: As the diseases are irreversible, one should take care to avoid asbestos exposure.
Identifying asbestos on your own is risky because the fibers are tiny. Some old floor tiles or pipe insulation might contain asbestos. The only way to know for sure is to take a sample to a lab. Always treat materials that may contain asbestos with caution
Real Results: A homeowner took out 50 square feet of "safe" ceiling tiles. They found out that these tiles had 15% chrysotile asbestos
Takeaway: Don't trust your eyes to locate asbestos; only lab analysis will tell.
A certified inspector takes small, sealed samples from suspect areas. These samples go to an accredited lab. Technicians use special microscopes to find asbestos. They report the type and amount found.
Real Results: A typical home test takes 1 to 3 hours. You usually get lab results in 3 to 5 working days.
Takeaway: Have a qualified inspector take and test samples safely.
For many homeowners and property managers, "asbestos removal" means masked figures in hazmat suits.
It also brings a sense of anxiety. This reaction is normal for a material once seen as a miracle for its fire resistance and insulation.
However, it is now known as a serious health risk. If your property was built before the late 1980s, it likely has asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) hidden in walls, floors, or ceilings. I’ve seen the relief on a family’s face when their home is declared asbestos-free. It’s not just about renovating. It’s about bringing peace of mind. It also protects loved ones from tiny fibers that can cause serious lung diseases later on.
This isn’t a DIY project for a weekend warrior. It requires expertise, careful protocols, and strict safety standards. Navigating the challenges of identifying, managing, and removing asbestos involves critical decisions. This guide makes the process easier. It offers clear, useful insights based on industry best practices and the human stakes. We’ll help you make informed choices, ensuring your safety and compliance at every step.
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