How Much Does an Asbestos Certificate Cost? 

Introduction

As of November 23, 2022, in Flanders, it is mandatory to obtain an asbestos certificate when selling or purchasing a house built before 2001. This certificate provides essential information to both the seller and buyer regarding the presence of asbestos within the property. Asbestos, a hazardous material used extensively from the 1960s to the early 1990s, was eventually banned due to the severe health risks it poses. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with obtaining an asbestos certificate and the factors that can influence these expenses. 

What is an Asbestos Certificate?

An asbestos certificate is a detailed report that confirms whether asbestos is present in a property and describes how it is utilized within the structure. This certificate is prepared by a certified asbestos expert and includes information on the location and application of asbestos in the building. The report is crucial to ensure that asbestos within the property is neither ignored nor overlooked, which could otherwise pose significant health risks to the occupants. 

Costs of an Asbestos Certificate

The cost of obtaining an asbestos certificate can vary widely based on several factors, such as the size of the property, the number of samples required, and the complexity of the inspection. Below is a general breakdown of the average costs for different types of properties: 

• Studio: €450 
• Apartment: €500 
• Terraced house: €550 
• Semi-detached house: €600 
• Detached house: €650 
• Non-residential: €3-5 per square meter 

Factors Affecting the Costs

Several factors can influence the cost of obtaining an asbestos certificate. Some of the key factors include: 

• Property Size: The size of the property significantly impacts the cost. Larger properties require more extensive inspections, thereby increasing the overall cost. This is particularly true for non-residential buildings, where costs are often calculated per square meter. 
• Number of Samples: The number of samples that need to be taken can also affect the cost. In cases where multiple samples are required for laboratory analysis, the cost will naturally increase, particularly if asbestos is suspected in materials that are not immediately visible.
• Inspection Complexity: The complexity of the asbestos inspection can also drive up costs. For instance, if asbestos is found in materials that are difficult to access or inspect, the inspection becomes more challenging and thus more expensive. This is especially relevant for buildings with intricate designs or those where asbestos is located in hard-to-reach areas. 

How to Request an Asbestos Certificate

To obtain an asbestos certificate, follow these steps: 

1. Request Quotes: Use the Asbestattestoffertes website to receive up to 5 free, non-binding quotes from certified asbestos experts. You can then choose the quote and expert that best suits your needs. 
2. Building Inspection: The selected asbestos expert will conduct a non-destructive inventory of your building. Risky materials will be identified without causing damage to walls or floors. If necessary, samples will be taken for laboratory analysis, which involves removing a small piece of suspected material. 
3. Receive the Certificate: Once the data is processed, the asbestos expert will provide you with the asbestos certificate, which is issued by OVAM. The certificate can also be viewed online via the Woningpas. 

How Long Does It Take to Receive an Asbestos Certificate?

The process of obtaining an asbestos certificate typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks. The exact timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of the inspection and the availability of the asbestos expert. 

Conclusion

In Flanders, it is now illegal to sell or purchase a house built before 2001 without an asbestos certificate. This certificate is a critical component of the sales process, ensuring the health and safety of the residents by preventing asbestos from going unnoticed. The cost of obtaining an asbestos certificate can vary considerably depending on factors such as property size and inspection complexity. To minimize costs, it is advisable to compare quotes from different experts and follow their recommendations closely.