Hello everyone,
We are considering purchasing a house built in 1955 and are still somewhat uncertain about estimating the costs accurately. The insulation wool in the roof, which is quite loose, likely contains asbestos. Naturally, this would need to be removed before we could move in and then carry out any further renovations. We have not been able to find clear information online about the prices or how much of this could be done as a DIY project.
Is it allowed to remove and dispose of such materials independently? If yes, what would the cost be? If not, what would it cost to have it done by a professional company?
The house has a living area of 106sqm (1,141 sq ft) over two floors, so the roof should be about 50sqm (538 sq ft), or slightly less.
We would appreciate an assessment from people who are more experienced with this.
We are considering purchasing a house built in 1955 and are still somewhat uncertain about estimating the costs accurately. The insulation wool in the roof, which is quite loose, likely contains asbestos. Naturally, this would need to be removed before we could move in and then carry out any further renovations. We have not been able to find clear information online about the prices or how much of this could be done as a DIY project.
Is it allowed to remove and dispose of such materials independently? If yes, what would the cost be? If not, what would it cost to have it done by a professional company?
The house has a living area of 106sqm (1,141 sq ft) over two floors, so the roof should be about 50sqm (538 sq ft), or slightly less.
We would appreciate an assessment from people who are more experienced with this.
N
nordanney2 Feb 2025 16:56You are allowed to. That’s not a problem. As for asbestos? No idea, but given the construction year, it will at least be mineral wool fibers (KMF), which are not very harmful.
With the right protection, it’s manageable. Of course, also clean thoroughly (vacuum/mop).
Disposal is usually done in tightly sealed, dustproof bags for a small fee at the recycling center or waste disposal facility. For us, 2 cubic meters (2.6 cubic yards) costs about 50.
With the right protection, it’s manageable. Of course, also clean thoroughly (vacuum/mop).
Disposal is usually done in tightly sealed, dustproof bags for a small fee at the recycling center or waste disposal facility. For us, 2 cubic meters (2.6 cubic yards) costs about 50.
A
Allthewayup2 Feb 2025 20:06I’m not sure if asbestos fibers were ever used in mineral wool, but the mineral wool from that time is definitely respirable. I would send a small sample to a laboratory (costs about 100€) for analysis to be certain.
For asbestos, I generally recommend reading and following TRGS 519.
Asbestos remediation costs can be claimed as extraordinary expenses on your taxes. The tax office required the mentioned lab test from us in order to approve the costs.
With KMF (man-made mineral fibers) without asbestos, the removal process is somewhat simpler.
If the attic is connected in any way to the living area that will be occupied later, have an indoor air quality test done after the renovation to ensure the living space hasn’t been contaminated.
The costs are reasonable, and it gives you peace of mind. As mentioned, you can fully claim these costs.
For asbestos, I generally recommend reading and following TRGS 519.
Asbestos remediation costs can be claimed as extraordinary expenses on your taxes. The tax office required the mentioned lab test from us in order to approve the costs.
With KMF (man-made mineral fibers) without asbestos, the removal process is somewhat simpler.
If the attic is connected in any way to the living area that will be occupied later, have an indoor air quality test done after the renovation to ensure the living space hasn’t been contaminated.
The costs are reasonable, and it gives you peace of mind. As mentioned, you can fully claim these costs.
nordanney schrieb:
Yes, you are allowed to do that. It’s not a problem. As for asbestos? No idea, but given the construction year, it’s probably mineral wool insulation (which is not harmful).
With the right protective equipment, it can be handled safely. Of course, make sure to clean thoroughly afterward (vacuuming/mopping).
Disposal is usually done in dust-tight sealed bags at recycling centers for a small fee. Where I am, 2 cubic meters (70 cubic feet) costs about fifty bucks.Thanks in advance for the feedback.Allthewayup schrieb:
I’m not sure if asbestos fibers were also used in mineral wool, but in any case, the mineral wool from that time is hazardous to the lungs. I would send a small sample to a lab (it costs around €100 for testing) so you can be certain.
For asbestos, I would generally recommend reading and applying TRGS 519 guidelines.
Asbestos remediation can be claimed on taxes as an extraordinary expense.
The tax office required the mentioned lab test from us to recognize the costs.
For KMF (mineral wool fibers without asbestos), dismantling is somewhat easier.
If the attic is connected in any way to the living area that will be occupied later, have an indoor air quality test done after the remediation to ensure you haven’t contaminated the living space.
It doesn’t cost a fortune, gives you peace of mind, and as mentioned, you can fully deduct the costs.The attic is not accessible by an open staircase. There is only a hatch, which would only be opened later if repairs to the roof were necessary.
But having the measurements done is probably very sensible, so we can be on the safe side.
We are not completely sure if it’s asbestos. A friend who knows the subject well was there and said there is asbestos. However, the insulation material was more yellow than gray. So, to be safe, we will have a test done.
Yasemin schrieb:
Therefore, to be sure, we will conduct a test. I would strongly recommend that as well, especially because otherwise, it’s hard to get it out of your mind.
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