Environmental Testing in California
Asbestos, Wildfire Soot & Mold Test Kits

California has an enormous stock of pre-1980 homes, particularly in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, and the Bay Area. Asbestos was used extensively in these older structures — in roofing, floor tiles, textured coatings, insulation around pipes and boilers, and in exterior siding products. Additionally, California has naturally occurring asbestos (NOA) deposits in 44 of 58 counties, meaning construction, grading, or renovation in certain areas can disturb asbestos-bearing rock or soil.

California's wildfire problem has become one of the state's most urgent indoor air quality concerns. When structures burn, asbestos-containing materials can be disturbed and release fibers. Wildfire smoke and soot also penetrate homes through ventilation systems, depositing hazardous fine particles on surfaces and in ductwork — even in homes far from the fire perimeter. Soot testing after any major wildfire event is strongly recommended for homes in affected areas.

Coastal fog, marine moisture, and inadequate ventilation create mold risk in Northern California and in older, poorly maintained buildings throughout the state. Properties with crawl spaces, flat roofs, or moisture management issues are particularly vulnerable.

Who Should Test in California

Homeowners in pre-1980 residences, anyone living near wildfire-affected areas, families in coastal or older urban housing, and anyone undertaking renovation in a pre-1978 home should strongly consider testing.