Although not required under most state home inspector Standards of Practice, one of the things that most good inspectors will comment on is the presence of suspect asbestos containing pipe insulation. The really good inspectors will comment on the possibility that suspect asbestos containing pipe insulation may have been improperly removed. The following photo of a steam heating pipe shows a residual whitish / grayish fibrous material stuck to the pipe. This is the telltale sign that a non-professional asbestos abatement person (likely a home owner) removed the suspect containing pipe insulation. There are strict guidelines and procedures for removing asbestos material. Improper removal can release microscopic asbestos fibers into the area where the material is being disturbed. Asbestos fibers unless cleaned up by licensed / professional abatement personal will remain in the area for an unlimited amount of time. More info about asbestos.
