Hi Frank, I like to do a pre-inspection or at least questionnaire so I don't get involved.  The answer you want might best come from your insurance agent, that's where I started.  I had to bring him up to speed as to what an energy auditor does, but his advice was, I should not be increasing a know exposure for the insurance company to be potentially liable.  If I didn't know it was there and something happened they would cover me.  But, If I know asbestos, mold or other hazards are present and my blower door, advice, or other testing could open up a liability, I should decline the work and advise then to have things cleaned up by someone certified in that area and don't even recommend someone.

I offer a simple walk-through audit, a real no touch option.  That is what I offer them if I have made the trip and feel an obligation to help in some way.

The reality is, you can't feel bad about the "get it fixed" advice, because it will have to happen at some point.  If you can find it, an inspector will too.

Hope that helps

Sorry, almost forgot, tell them to get it tested, it may not be asbestos.
Bud
Another comment.  You should probably advise them not to use the whole house fan as replacement air could be contaminated and no they should not blow in insulation over what is there.

Have you checked the walls to be sure that is all you are dealing with?

You might try to talk with a removal company to see what is involved.  An attic might not be that bad since it is somewhat outside the living space.

Here is my asbestos link:
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Have to run but will give it more thought tonight.

Bud

I did a bit more searching and found a very good article on the issue.  It mentions encapsulation, which I have heard of but never researched.  Anyway, here is the link:
Multimedia file viewing and clickable links are available for registered members only!!  You need to or !!


I did suspect you were dealing with a friend or relative, but worse it was you.  And even worse, you are in the business, so it makes it tough to look the other way.  Unfortunately, and the article talks about this, someone will have to fix it sooner or later.  Now that your landlord knows it is there, his backside is on the line.

If I think of anything helpful I will post.

Bud

Tough one!

First: According to Wiki (I know iffy) the Feds do not recommend removing vermiculite.  That probably means stabilizing in place. (encapsulating).

Second: I wouldn't pressurize or depressurize. I would have an asbestos abatement make an assessment, including testing, and bid. I would want a testing with the assessment - I don't like the idea of labeling all vermiculite as contaminated. I would not want to be involved with the abatement program.

Third, I would be prepared (at least mentally) to be ready to move if the landlord doesn't want to work with it.

Fourth as I am typing, I'm wondering if the landlord knows - are there many other houses in the neighbor hood with vermiculite?  If he knew or had reason to know - you have a whole different ballgame.

Fifth:  I don't think I would move on this without the Landlord pushing it.  How long have he/they had the house.  They may have recourse.

I don't know about spraying foam over it.  Encapsulating means (to me at least) surrounding.  How do you spray foam on the bottom? <GRIN>

A certified contractor will know these answers and be able to do it right.

John  

Dito. Not all has the presence of absbestos.

I DID IT AGAIN L O L "ASBESTOS" I KNEW I MISSED A QUESTION ON THAT TEST. SORRY.