How Calgary is built
- Before 1961 10%
- 1961–1990 38%
- 1991–2000 17%
- 2001 or later 36%
Where asbestos shows up in Calgary houses
Of Calgary's 379,710 houses (single-detached, semi-detached, row houses and duplexes), 10% were built before 1961 and 47% before 1991, according to the 2021 Census.
- Vermiculite attic insulation: loose, pebbly, grey-brown or silver-gold granules.
- Vinyl floor tiles and their adhesive, textured ceilings and some plaster.
- Duct wrap and pipe insulation on older heating systems.
The rules in Alberta
Alberta's OHS Code requires certified workers for asbestos removal, and anyone planning asbestos removal, or demolition or renovation of a building containing asbestos, must notify Alberta OHS at least 72 hours before starting.
Whatever the rules, don't sand, cut or remove suspect material yourself before it's tested.
Testing and labs
A trained assessor takes small samples, and an accredited lab analyzes them; plan on about $50–$150 per sample. Asbestos labs in Canada are typically accredited under NIST's NVLAP program.
Our asbestos and vermiculite guide · Attic inspections in Calgary
Asbestos and vermiculite testing in Calgary: common questions
Do I need an asbestos test before renovating in Calgary?
If the house was built before 1991 and the work will disturb insulation, flooring, plaster or duct wrap, test first. Alberta's OHS Code requires certified workers for asbestos removal, and anyone planning asbestos removal, or demolition or renovation of a building containing asbestos, must notify Alberta OHS at least 72 hours before starting.
How much does asbestos testing cost?
About $50–$150 per lab sample, plus the assessor's visit. Abatement, if needed, is quoted separately.
What should I do if I have vermiculite in the attic?
Leave it alone, keep the attic closed, and have it sampled before any attic work. Health Canada advises against disturbing it or removing it yourself.