Assume suspect materials may contain asbestos if the building was built before 2000
Look for common asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, pipe wrap, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing, siding, textured coatings, and cement sheets
Check building records, renovation documents, and original material labels if available
Do not disturb, cut, sand, drill, or break suspect materials
Use a licensed asbestos inspector to assess the material
Collect samples only through a certified asbestos professional
Send samples to an accredited laboratory for analysis
Use polarized light microscopy or other approved laboratory methods to confirm asbestos
Treat any damaged, friable, or deteriorating suspect material as potentially asbestos-containing until tested
If asbestos is confirmed, follow local regulations for containment, removal, and disposal