Wow, this week has been full of issues surrounding asbestos and lead testing. It seems that some contractors are concerned that they dont' even want to provide a bid on a project until $1,600 worth of testing has been completed... even the $1,600 sounds high. I haven't had to spend that kind of money for testing even after it closes escrow.
I say that is outrageous waste of my client's money. All work will be completed after the close of escrow, even testing. In the meantime "assume" it has asbestos and lead and move forward with your bid.
If you have a contractor who insists on these tests in advance - FIND ANOTHER CONTRACTOR! It seems to me that contractor doesn't really want this job anyway.
There is absolutely no need to pay that much money up front on a home you don't own so don't do it.
Lets have some other consultants and contractors weigh in on this issue.
Remember that part of our job as a 203k consultant is that we keep our clients safe from overcharges, and contractors who might otherwise try to take advantage of an unwary buyer.
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