Should Markham buyers worry about asbestos and vermiculite in older homes?Asbestos was used in many building products before Canada banned it in 2018, so older Markham homes can contain it in places like insulation, flooring and pipe wrap. Vermiculite attic insulation may contain asbestos. Health Canada advises leaving vermiculite undisturbed and hiring trained professionals for removal. Materials in good condition are usually low risk until renovation, so test before you open walls, ceilings or floors.
Older homes in established Markham neighbourhoods offer big lots and mature trees, and sometimes older materials too.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, encourages buyers of older homes to plan testing before renovations.
Where it can show up
| Material | Where |
|---|---|
| Vermiculite insulation | Attics and wall cavities |
| Older floor tiles and backing | Basements and kitchens |
| Pipe and duct wrap | Furnace rooms |
| Textured ceilings and plaster | Living areas |
Vermiculite
Vermiculite is a pebble-like, grey-brown or gold insulation. Health Canada’s advice is to leave it undisturbed, avoid storing items in the attic, seal cracks in ceilings, and use trained professionals if it needs to be removed.
Before you buy
- Ask the seller about known materials and past removal.
- Ask your inspector to note suspect materials.
- Plan lab testing before major renovations.
Buying an older home?
Michael John Lau can help you plan inspections and testing for older homes.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Before you renovate
- Test suspect materials with an accredited lab.
- Get abatement quotes if results are positive.
- Build removal costs into your renovation budget.
Keeping it in perspective
Many older homes are safe to live in with materials left intact. The risk comes from disturbing them. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you buy or renovate.
Knowing what is behind the walls makes renovation plans more accurate. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
When did Canada ban asbestos?
Canada’s ban on asbestos took effect at the end of 2018.
Does vermiculite always contain asbestos?
Not always, but it may. Treat it as if it does until tested.
Is asbestos dangerous if left alone?
Materials in good condition are generally lower risk until disturbed.
Can I remove vermiculite myself?
Health Canada advises using trained professionals.
Will a home inspector test for asbestos?
Most note suspect materials; lab testing is a separate step.
Should I test before renovating?
Yes, before opening walls, ceilings or floors in an older home.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Vermiculite guidance is from Health Canada's advisory on vermiculite insulation. Canada's asbestos ban is the Prohibition of Asbestos and Products Containing Asbestos Regulations (in force December 30, 2018). Confirm testing and abatement with qualified professionals. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
