"Multiple Layers" of Deception and Unprofessionalism…read more..
In my correspondence with Gene K., a representative of Scope Environmental (cut and pasted from Yelp chat room) mentions "We can definitely help. Our asbestos inspection, survey, and lab results pricing is very competitive. It's $625 for the inspection and report. Each sample is $35. No other fees. Generally, results and reports will be available within 24-48 hours".
Gene K. also mentioned the following "Some samples have multiple layers, and that can not be determined prior to taking the physical sample. You are welcome to call in so that you can properly comprehend the procedures".
However, UNDISCLOSED FEES can creep into the price charged to the customer, e.g. such as the need to test "multiple layers" of one material; so, "No other fees" is (deliberately) misleading and therefore, deceptive.
A field inspector (Daisy Flamenco) of Scope Environmental, arrived at the project site and upon seeing the area that needed sampling, asked the homeowner for a ladder to get her modest stature to the sampling material areas. When sampling the ceiling, Ms. Flamenco was barely able to reach the sampling surface (needed to be on her tippy toes), even with a step ladder (provided by the homeowner). ALL sample takers must come fully prepared for all conditions at the work site and not rely on the homeowner to provide tools, equipment or assistance of any kind to do THEIR job!
Ms. Flamenco was dressed casually, no respirator or other appropriate protective equipment or gear, which is not only hazardous to herself, but sends the message to the homeowner (overseeing the work), that asbestos is really not that harmful.
Even two and a half years following the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is appropriate if all workers who enter a home, to wear a mask or at least offer to wear one, but Ms. Flamenco failed to show the occupants of the residence, such consideration. Most (professional) people return to bad pre-pandemic habits, even if to protect the home's occupants from the common cold.
What is really inconsiderate and unprofessional, is that Ms. Flamenco had disturbed suspected asbestos containing materials by scraping and cutting away material from parts of a furnace and its ducts, leaving the furnace and ducts out-of-order, i.e. if no asbestos or other harmful materials were found, the furnace and ducts could not be safely and effectively used without first repairing them.
Leaving carcinogenic materials exposed (cutting, scraping or otherwise removing and exposing asbestos) to those who live at the work site, is hazardous and unprofessional and should never be done this way. Exposing harmful materials puts people and animals at risk of exposure to carcinogens and asbestosis causing particles! Asbestos sample takers should take measures to seal or otherwise cover, exposed asbestos containing materials (when they are through sampling them), to protect home occupants.
This experience was a wake-up call to how incompetent workers can make a bad situation, worse!
