1. Asbestos in an older home poses the greatest health risk when it is:
Answer & explanation
Answer: B. Asbestos is mainly dangerous when friable or disturbed (e.g., during renovation); intact materials typically pose little risk.
law
asbestos
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral once widely used in insulation, flooring, roofing, and pipe wrap, especially in buildings constructed before the 1980s. It is dangerous mainly when disturbed and its fibers become airborne, where they can cause lung disease and cancer. Intact material is often left in place or encapsulated, while removal should be done by licensed professionals. Agents should disclose known asbestos and recommend inspection rather than give their own assessment.
- Exam tip
- Asbestos is most hazardous when friable or disturbed; encapsulation is often an accepted alternative to removal. Agents disclose and refer, they don't diagnose.
- Example
- A buyer planning to tear out old 1960s floor tiles is advised to have them tested for asbestos before starting demolition.
Related terms & state variants
Sources
Source verification pending. Confirm current requirements with your state regulator.
Last verified: 2026-10-23