A contaminated home in Michigan’s Escanaba Township has undergone asbestos abatement, the first step in the township’s plan to demolish the property. The decontamination and demolition of the vacant home is being financed by owner David Magnason, after a drawn-out battle over the property between Magnason and the township. Over the past six years, problems with outstanding back taxes and other issues have caused a great deal of conflict in the community. The aging property poses a serious fire hazard.

The removal of asbestos from this 1970s-era home is vital to public health and safety. Asbestos needed to be removed prior to demolition in order to prevent the fibrous material from becoming airborne. Asbestos exposure has been incontrovertibly linked to the development of mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that often starts in the lining of the lungs.

Mesothelioma affects less than 3,000 Americans each year, and while there are palliative mesothelioma treatment methods available, including chemo, there is no known cure. The disease typically lies dormant for up to fifty years before an individual begins to suffer from mesothelioma symptoms.

In addition to affecting the lining of the lungs, the cancer may also manifest in the lining of the heart (the pericardium), as well as the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum).

"It is a shame that the home needs to be demolished, if it had been maintained its market value was established at approximately $102, 975," said Escanaba Township Treasurer Linda Robitaille.

As is the case with many aging homes, asbestos removal must be conducted prior to any renovations or demolition. Not only is it required by law, but it is imperative that the potentially hazardous material be removed from a home safely, under the supervision of a licensed professional, so that homeowners and others present are not exposed.

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