Sampling and analysis
Know exactly what you are dealing with before you demolish or renovate: samples taken by a hygienist, analysis by an external, independent, accredited lab and a clear report.
Why test before the work starts
In Quebec, before renovating or demolishing, the law requires knowing whether the affected materials contain asbestos. Until a suspect material has been tested, it is presumed to contain asbestos and must be handled as such. Testing ahead of time means the right method, the real cost and no work stoppages.
- Asbestos: plaster, tiles, ceilings, insulation
- Vermiculite
- Lead paint
- Mold (when needed)
How it works
- 01
Site visit and division of the building into zones: the same material, installed the same way, at the same time.
- 02
A hygienist takes small pieces of each material without contaminating the space.
- 03
An external, independent, accredited laboratory analyzes the samples. A material counts as asbestos-containing from 0.1%.
- 04
Report by zone and, if needed, a precisely priced removal quote.
How many samples?
It depends on the material. A single positive result means the whole zone is considered asbestos-containing; if all are negative, the zone is declared free of asbestos.
- Plaster and site-mixed materials
- 9per zone, spread evenly across the zone
- Pipe insulation
- 3 minimumper type of insulation, plus 1 per elbow, fitting or repair
- Sprayed insulation (fireproofing)
- 2per zone
Frequently asked questions
At what level is a material considered asbestos-containing?
From 0.1% asbestos, based on analysis by an external, independent, accredited laboratory. Without testing, a suspect material is presumed to contain asbestos.
What does a single positive sample change?
The whole zone is then considered asbestos-containing: every place where that material was installed the same way, at the same time.
Why does the report affect my quote?
With a complete report, we price exactly what has to be removed. Untested materials are either excluded from our quotes or treated as asbestos-containing, which is what prevents surprises and extras mid-project.
How long until I get results?
Usually a few business days after sampling, depending on the laboratory and the number of samples.
Is it required before demolition?
In Quebec, materials likely to contain asbestos must be identified before work that could disturb them.
Does every material in the building need to be tested?
No. Only those likely to contain asbestos that will be affected by the planned work.
Does the report stay valid for future work?
Yes, for the materials and zones already sampled. If new work affects other materials, they will need to be tested in turn.
Learn more
Official sources our methods and this page rely on.
