How Nanaimo is built
- Before 1961 15%
- 1961–1990 40%
- 1991–2000 18%
- 2001 or later 28%
Where asbestos shows up in Nanaimo houses
Of Nanaimo's 33,520 houses (single-detached, semi-detached, row houses and duplexes), 15% were built before 1961 and 54% 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 British Columbia
B.C. has Canada's strictest regime: before renovation or demolition work, a qualified person must inspect and sample for hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead (OHS Regulation s. 20.112), and since January 1, 2024, asbestos abatement contractors must be licensed by WorkSafeBC.
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 Nanaimo
Asbestos and vermiculite testing in Nanaimo: common questions
Do I need an asbestos test before renovating in Nanaimo?
If the house was built before 1991 and the work will disturb insulation, flooring, plaster or duct wrap, test first. B.C. has Canada's strictest regime: before renovation or demolition work, a qualified person must inspect and sample for hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead (OHS Regulation s. 20.112), and since January 1, 2024, asbestos abatement contractors must be licensed by WorkSafeBC.
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.