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Asbestos Exposure in Your Apartment: What You Need to Know

October 24, 2025

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Living in an apartment can be convenient, but it can also come with hidden dangers—like asbestos exposure. This mineral, once commonly used in construction materials, can lead to serious and life-threatening health conditions. Understanding where asbestos might exist, when it poses a risk, and who may be liable is critical for protecting yourself and your family.

What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber once widely used in building materials for its heat resistance, insulation, and durability. The danger arises when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, releasing microscopic fibers into the air.

Inhaled fibers can lodge permanently in lung tissue and the linings of internal organs, causing inflammation, scarring, and long-term health problems. Key health conditions linked to asbestos exposure include:

• Mesothelioma – a rare, aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart
• Lung cancer
• Asbestosis – a chronic, progressive lung disease causing breathing difficulties

Even brief exposure can be dangerous over time, and there is no safe level of asbestos exposure.

Where Might You Find Asbestos in Your Apartment?

Apartments built before the 1980s may contain asbestos in materials such as:

• Ceiling tiles and floor tiles
• Insulation materials and pipe wrapping
• Textured paints and vinyl flooring
• Roofing materials and cement products

Is Asbestos in Your Apartment Automatically Dangerous?

Not all asbestos-containing materials pose an immediate health risk. As long as the materials are intact, undisturbed, and in good condition, exposure is unlikely. The danger arises when renovations, repairs, or accidental damage disturb these materials.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Asbestos?

• Do not disturb the material: Avoid touching, scraping, or attempting to remove it yourself.
• Contact your landlord immediately: They are responsible for maintaining safe living conditions.
• Request professional inspection: Only a certified asbestos professional can reliably identify asbestos-containing materials.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Liability in New Jersey

Under New Jersey law, landlords are required to provide safe and habitable living conditions. This includes:

• Complying with housing codes related to asbestos.
• Following standards set by the New Jersey Department of Health, Department of Environmental Protection, and Department of Labor & Workforce Development for asbestos abatement and contractor licensing.

If a landlord fails to address known asbestos hazards, they can be legally liable for injuries, medical expenses, and other damages that result from exposure. Liability may also extend to property managers or building owners who negligently maintain or repair the apartment.

Steps to Take After Potential Asbestos Exposure

1. Seek medical attention immediately, informing your healthcare provider about suspected asbestos exposure. Regular screenings may be recommended.
2. Document the hazard: Take photos of damaged materials and note dates of exposure.
3. Keep records of all communications with your landlord regarding the issue.

These steps are critical for both protecting your health and establishing evidence for a potential legal claim.

Protecting Your Family

Even small exposures can accumulate over time. Children are particularly vulnerable due to longer latency periods for asbestos-related diseases, so extra precautions are important. Avoid allowing children to play near damaged insulation, floor tiles, or other suspected asbestos-containing materials.

Get Legal Help From the New Jersey Asbestos Lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler

If you or a family member has been exposed to asbestos in your apartment and developed related health problems, the New Jersey asbestos lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler can help. Contact us for a free consultation at 215-569-4000 or complete our online form. We are located in Philadelphia and serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.