Asbestos Inspection & Testing for Residential and Commercial Properties in Montreal, North Shore and South Shore
What is Asbestos and Why is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials due to its fire resistance and durability. However, prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibres poses severe health risks, making asbestos inspection and testing essential in Montreal, North Shore and South Shore.
Health Risks Associated
with Asbestos Exposure
When inhaled, asbestos fibres can cause serious lung diseases, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. These diseases often develop years or even decades after exposure, making early detection crucial.
Signs You May Need Asbestos Testing
If your property in Greater Montreal contains older building materials, you may require asbestos testing under specific circumstances.
Cracking or Deteriorating Building Materials
If your ceilings, walls, or insulation materials show visible cracks, deterioration, or water damage, asbestos fibres could be released into the air, creating a serious health hazard.
Planning Renovations or Demolitions
Before beginning renovations, demolitions, or home improvements, asbestos testing is strongly recommended to prevent the spread of harmful fibres during construction.
Is Asbestos Testing Mandatory Before Renovations?
Yes. According to Quebec’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, any home or commercial building constructed before 1990 is presumed to contain asbestos unless testing proves otherwise.
Does the Presence of Asbestos Affect Your Property Value?
The presence of asbestos in a material in good condition does not in any way affect the normal use of the home as purchased.
If a buyer is considering renovation work, they will need to carry out the necessary checks to properly estimate these costs. Each case is specific. Refer to a specialized contractor.
Why Choose Multitest for Asbestos Testing?
Certified Experts in Asbestos Detection
Our team has extensive experience in asbestos detection and analysis, ensuring compliance with Quebec’s safety regulations.
Test Quality and Credibility
The test has greater credibility if the samples are taken by Multitest.This guarantees the origin of the samples referenced in the written report.
Technical evaluation is performed in accordance with the analytical method prescribed in Québec “method 244” of the Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST) for materials and method 198.4 of the Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) for resilient floorings.
The laboratory carrying out our analysis is recognized by the IRSST. Multitest as well as the laboratory are covered by an errors and omissions liability insurance.
Accurate Results You Can Trust
We work with IRSST recognized laboratories, providing reliable asbestos testing with fast turnaround times.
Purpose of Asbestos Testing and Regulations
This test consists in sampling and performing laboratory analysis on this material to determine the nature and the quantity of asbestos. The acceptable threshold (standard) is less than 0.1% under article 69.2 of the RSST.
As per the articles 69.4 and 69.12 of the Regulation Respecting Occupational Health and Safety, S-2.1, r13, (RSST), all these materials are presumed to contain asbestos subject to demonstrating the contrary.
Our tests consist of:
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Sampling: Using protective equipment, the technician carefully takes a number of samples (according to the type of material) from one or more homogeneous sampling areas. The technician writes down observations and notes the location of the samples on a diagram. This document will be included in the final report.
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Laboratory Analysis: The chemist determines whether the tested material contains asbestos and which type.
Written Report: Multitest provides a summary report that includes the conclusion, the laboratory certificate of analysis, and our sampling report with photos.
Our tests consist of
Sampling
Using protective equipment, the technician carefully takes a number of samples (according to the type of material) from one or more homogeneous sampling areas. The technician writes down observations and notes the location of the samples on a diagram. This document will be included in the final report.
LABORATORY ANALYSIS
The chemist determines whether the tested material contains asbestos and which type.
written report
Multitest provides a summary report that includes the conclusion, the laboratory certificate of analysis, and our sampling report with photos.
Materials exposed to asbestos
Common Materials Containing Asbestos in Older Homes
Homes and commercial buildings constructed before 1990 in Montreal, North Shore and South Shore may contain asbestos in materials such as:
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Various building components (walls, ceilings, insulation, floor coverings, etc.) could be made of materials likely to contain asbestos.
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These include drywall, joint compound, plaster/cement, textured finish (stucco), mortar, parging, pipe insulation, resilient floorings, and acoustic tiles.
How much does testing for
asbestos-contaminated materials cost, and how long does it take?
Report and Sampling for materials exposed to asbestos
OPTION 1
If sampled by Multitest
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Report and sampling, without analysis: $200 for 6 samples or less
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If more than 6 samples: add $28 per additional sample taken
OPTION 2
If sampled by client
(no traceability)
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Report without analysis: $100
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*Including a Laboratory Analysis*:
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Including the laboratory certificate, with a stop at the first positive sample (which contains asbestos).
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$85 per analyzed sample (within 4 working days)
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$150 per analyzed resilient flooring sample (7 working days)
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* Travel fees may apply.
Other delays available including emergency. Please contact us for more information.
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Example for 9 samples:
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Option 1: If Multitest collects the samples, you will pay a maximum of $1,049
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Report and sampling: $200 + 3 x $28 = $284
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Laboratory analysis: 9 x $85 if all samples are analyzed.
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Option 2: If the customer takes the samples, the price will be a maximum of $865:
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Report: $100
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Laboratory analysis: 9 x $85 if all samples are analyzed.
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Example for
3 samples taken:
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Option 1: If Multitest collects the samples, you will pay a maximum of $455
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Report and sampling: $200
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Laboratory analysis: 3 x $85 if all samples are analyzed.
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Option 2: If the client collects the samples, you will pay a maximum of $355
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Report: $100
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Laboratory analysis: 3 x $85 if all samples are analyzed.
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Health Risks of Asbestos-Containing Materials
Asbestos is a health hazard when fibres detach from materials and become airborne. If the fibres are inhaled, they enter the respiratory system and can cause serious health issues after several years (asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, etc.). Airborne asbestos fibres are 400 to 2,000 times smaller than a human hair and are invisible to the naked eye.
Materials containing asbestos may be hazardous when they give off dust due to deterioration or as a result of work (maintenance, repairs, renovations, demolition, etc.). Health Canada notes on its website that materials containing asbestos do not pose a significant health risk if they are in good condition and no work is planned.
Work Safeguards for Testing Asbestos-Containing Materials
When a material is deemed to contain asbestos, regardless of percentage or type of asbestos fibre safeguards specified by regulations must be used to protect workers and, indirectly, the occupants of the building in cases where asbestos fibres could become airborne when such material is handled.
The applicable safeguards vary according to the type of asbestos-containing material and the scope of the work concerned. They may include wearing a half-mask with P100 (HEPA) filters, wearing protective clothing, and setting up an airtight enclosure.
For further details, please consult the following free online guide: Guide de prévention amiante by ASP Construction (available in French only).
Additional Information Online
For more information about asbestos, please visit the following organizations’ websites:
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Gestion sécuritaire de l’amiante by CNESST (available in French only)
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Guide de prévention amiante by ASP Construction (available in French only)
Vermiculite containing asbestos
What is Vermiculite?
Vermiculite is a mineral (mica) that expands to around 5-15 times its initial volume when exposed to high temperatures, becoming fire-resistant, absorbent, and chemical-resistant. This makes vermiculite a suitable lightweight material for insulation, ideal for attics, walls, and under floors.
The Problem with Vermiculite Insulation
Health Canada issued a notice on vermiculite insulation in spring 2004. This insulation is used mainly in attics. Vermiculite could contain asbestos fibres that are harmful to health if the insulation is disturbed and fibres become airborne in the inhabited part of the building.
Vermiculite containing asbestos was extracted from the Libby mine in Montana (United States). This mine contained a natural deposit of asbestos, which contaminated the vermiculite during its extraction. The contaminated vermiculite was sold in Canada from 1920 to 1990 mainly under the Zonolite brand.
As with all materials likely to contain asbestos, you should assume the vermiculite contains asbestos and avoid disturbing it. Consult a specialist if needed.
Health Risks Associated with Airborne Asbestos Fibres
(similar health risks to materials containing asbestos)
Asbestos is a health hazard when fibres detach from materials and become airborne. If the fibres are inhaled, they enter the respiratory system and can cause serious health issues after several years (asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, etc.). Airborne asbestos fibres are 400 to 2,000 times smaller than a human hair and are invisible to the naked eye.
Materials containing asbestos may be hazardous when they release dust due to deterioration or as a result of work (maintenance, repairs, renovations, demolition, etc.). Health Canada notes on its website that materials containing asbestos do not pose a significant health risk if they are in good condition and no work is planned.
Work Safeguards for Testing Vermiculite
When a material is deemed to contain asbestos, regardless of percentage or type of asbestos fibre, safeguards specified by regulations must be used to protect workers and, indirectly, the occupants of the building concerned in cases where asbestos fibres could become airborne when such material is handled.
The applicable safeguards vary according to the type of asbestos containing material and the scope of the work concerned, and may include:
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Wearing a half-mask with P100 (HEPA) filters.
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Wearing protective clothing.
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Setting up an airtight enclosure.
For further details, please consult the following free online guide: Guide de prévention amiante by ASP Construction (available in French only).
Does the Presence of Vermiculite Affect Your Property Value?
The presence of vermiculite in good condition does not in any way affect the normal use of the home as purchased.
If a buyer is considering renovation work, they will need to carry out the necessary checks to properly estimate these costs. Each case is specific. Refer to a specialized contractor.
How Much Does a Vermiculite Test Cost, and How Long Does It Take?
How Much Does a Vermiculite Test Cost, and How Long Does It Take?
Report and Sampling for Vermiculite
OPTION 1
If sampled by Multitest
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Report and sampling, without analysis: $200 for 3 samples or less
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If there is more than one space to visit, an additional fee of $75 may apply for each space visited.
OPTION 2
If sampled by client (no traceability)
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Report without analysis: $100
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*Laboratory Analysis* :
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Including the laboratory certificate, with a stop at the first positive sample (which contains asbestos).
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$85 per analyzed sample within 4 working days.
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Other delays available including emergency. Please contact us for more information.
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*Travel fees may apply.
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Example for 3 samples taken:
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Option 1: If Multitest collects the samples, you will pay a maximum of $455, detailed as follows:
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Report and sampling: $200
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Laboratory analysis: 3 x $85 if all samples are analyzed.
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Option 2: If the client collects the samples, you will pay a maximum of $355, detailed as follows:
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Report: $100
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Laboratory analysis: 3 x $85 if all samples are analyzed.
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Sampling
Using protective equipment, the Multitest technician carefully takes 3 samples from three different locations in the space to be examined (attic, walls, or subfloor). The laboratory requires 2 cups per sample (around 500 ml, or approximately half a Ziploc-type sandwich bag).
Observations
The technician records other types of insulation if present and locates the samples on a diagram. This document is included in the final report.
Laboratory Analysis
Conducted in accordance with analytical method 244 of the Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST) to determine whether asbestos fibres are present in the samples submitted for analysis.
Written Report
Multitest provides a summary report that includes recommendations, the laboratory certificate of analysis, and our sampling report.
Vermiculite Testing Methodology
Register for the Safe
Management of Asbestos
What is an Asbestos Register Exactly and Why Do You Need One?
Since June 2013, employers and owners of buildings used by workers are required to have inspections done every 2 years to check whether they contain flocking (if built before February 15, 1990) or heat insulating material (if built before May 15, 1999).
If such materials are present, the employer and building owner must:
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Prepare an asbestos register and make it available to workers in the establishment.
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Document any work done on materials likely to contain asbestos.
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Record all asbestos testing reports in the register.
How much does asbestos register preparation cost, and how long does it take?
Starting at $750, including:
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Building Inspection: Locate flocking or heat insulating material (lagging) in a plan furnished by the client, preferably.
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Register Preparation: Data compiled in table format (Excel), if applicable.
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Explanatory Letter: Includes photos of materials and recommendations for corrective actions if needed.
Optional Services:
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Addition of a list of all materials likely to contain asbestos and their location.
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Estimated cost for asbestos testing in these materials.
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Estimated cost for asbestos removal.
Travel fees may apply.
Complete report available within 5 to 10 business days following the inspection.
Additional Information
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For further details, please consult the following free online documents:
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Gestion sécuritaire de l’amiante guide by CNESST (available in French only).
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Regulation Respecting Occupational Health and Safety (c S-2.1, reg. 13, ss 69.1 to 69.16).
Air Quality Testing
Multitest Air Quality Testing and Credibility
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Multitest technicians hold ASP construction cards and have specialized training to work in asbestos removal environments.
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The laboratory fiber counter is recognized by the Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST).
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Multitest, as well as the laboratory, is covered by errors and omissions liability insurance.
What is the Purpose of a Final Air Test?
This test determines whether the amount of total fibres (all fibres combined, including asbestos fibres where applicable) exceeds the concentration of breathable asbestos fibres specified in the Safety Code for the Construction Industry. The acceptable concentration must be less than 0.01 fibre/cm³.
These tests are necessary during and/or after the removal of asbestos-containing materials to ensure air quality meets health standards.
What is an Analysis by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)?
If the final 4-hour test indicates that the total quantity of fibres exceeds the concentration specified in the Safety Code for the Construction Industry, we will recommend a second test. This consists of counting breathable asbestos fibres using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) to verify compliance with safety standards.
This test is performed on the same sample as the final 4-hour test.
What is the Purpose of a Daily Test During Work?
For this type of test, while the concentration of breathable asbestos fibres indicated in the Safety Code for the Construction Industry (below 0.01 fibre/cm³) does not necessarily have to be respected (as workers wear personal protective equipment), CNESST inspectors closely monitor the total concentration of airborne fibres in the work area.
This ensures that the contractor performs adequate fibre emission control to protect workers' health and safety (and indirectly, the health and safety of occupants).
Although additional daily air quality testing may be conducted in the “changing room for street clothes” (also called the “clean changing room”) of a high-risk work area, there is no legal obligation to do so. However, such testing may be requested by a CNESST inspector in specific cases, such as:
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Large numbers of workers present in a high-risk area.
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High traffic volume in a high-risk area.
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Concerns about improper airtight enclosure sealing.
How much does an air quality test cost, and how long does it take?
Final 4-Hour Test
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Cost: $495 (including sampling, report, and laboratory certificate).
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Turnaround Time: Available the same day if testing is done early in the morning or within one business day.
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Test Duration: 4 hours.
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Special contractor rates available—call us for details.
This test is necessary in many cases after the removal of vermiculite or other materials containing asbestos. The results confirm whether the amount of fibres in the air meets the applicable standards for healthy indoor air.
Optional TEM Analysis
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Cost: $395 per sample (not included in the initial fee).
Turnaround Time: 3 to 4 business days.
Daily Testing During Work
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Cost: $325 (including sampling and laboratory certificate).
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Turnaround Time: Available the same day if testing is done early in the morning or within one business day.
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Test Duration: Around 20 minutes.
This test consists of collecting a sample once per shift while work is being done to remove vermiculite or other asbestos-containing materials. It assesses total fibre content in the work area.
The results of these daily tests must be recorded in a log available on-site for the duration of the work. The previous day’s results are usually posted at the work area entrance the next morning.
*Travel fees may apply.
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For asbestos inspection and testing services in Montreal, North Shore and South Shore, and Greater Montreal, contact Multitest today for a professional assessment and peace of mind.