Earlier this week we wrote about William Muzzio Jr., a New Jersey man arrested for allegedly performing asbestos abatement procedures in 36 locations – including schools and a day care – without the proper license. In at least 10 of those 36 jobs, he released toxic asbestos particles into the air.
Many buildings and homes built before the 1980s used asbestos in their pipes, floor tiles and insulation before we knew how harmful the material was. After prolonged asbestos exposure, people can develop lung diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. These diseases are painful and often fatal, and they require lots of medical care. This is why it is very important for anyone hiring an asbestos abatement professional to make sure the company or contractor has the right license.
We can learn a few lessons about finding the right asbestos abatement professional from this case, such as:
- Beware low rates. New Jersey school officials said they hired Muzzio because he had comparatively low rates, and they wanted to support a local business. Unlicensed asbestos contractors often try to undercut their competitors.
- Do not trust documentation. Muzzio told clients that he was licensed; he even presented forged documents to school officials. You cannot trust all documents.
- Contact your state agency. Every state except Wyoming regulates asbestos licenses – Wyoming allows individual municipalities to regulate licenses. Contact your state’s Department of Labor to check the validity of a licensed asbestos remover. Most state websites have lists of licensed companies and contractors.
If you believe someone removed asbestos your home, office of child’s school without a license, talk to us. He or she should be held accountable for their negligence. Call us today at 1-888-637-6347, or visit our website to learn more about asbestos removal.
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – asbestos attorneys