Lead and asbestos screening test

Why this is a feasibility step, not a build step

The presence of lead paint or asbestos doesn't kill the project. Not knowing about them does — because the GC can't bid the abatement, the schedule can't account for the abatement, and the discovery on day-one of demo turns into a stop-work order while you scramble to hire an abatement contractor.

A $300–$600 inspection during feasibility lets every later step proceed with the right assumptions baked in.

What gets tested

• Lead paint — surfaces with paint older than 1978. Inspector takes XRF readings or paint chip samples on a representative set of surfaces.
• Asbestos in suspect materials — pipe insulation (most common in Seattle pre-1980), vermiculite attic insulation, vinyl floor tile and mastic, popcorn ceiling, drywall joint compound on pre-1980 work, exterior siding (asbestos-cement).

Who does it

Hire an AHERA-accredited building inspector for asbestos and an EPA-certified lead inspector / risk assessor for lead. Many firms offer combined inspections.

A note on the residential owner exemption

Under WAC 296-62-077, an owner-occupant working on their own single-family home has a narrower set of survey requirements than a commercial project — but the moment you hire a contractor, the contractor's obligations apply. Realistically, on a second-story addition you'll have a GC and subs, so the full survey-and-abatement framework applies.

What to do with the report

• Lead paint present. Your GC has to be EPA RRP-certified for any work that disturbs lead paint. Verify the contractor's RRP certification when you check L&I status in Phase 4.
• Asbestos present. Abatement has to happen before demolition starts on the affected areas. Add it to the bid scope (step 4.1) as a separate line, performed by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor before the GC mobilizes for demo.
• Notification. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency requires written notification before any asbestos removal — the abatement contractor handles this, but make sure it's in their scope.