Beyond the Beach: Why Santa Monica Homes Still Face Hidden Asbestos Risks (And What We’re Doing About It)
When most people think of Santa Monica, they picture palm trees, ocean breezes, and iconic sunsets. But beneath the charm and coastal elegance, many homes and buildings in this beautiful city still hide a not-so-sunny secret: asbestos.
At Fun Guy Inspections, we’ve been uncovering the unexpected—because yes, even here, in high-value coastal properties, asbestos still lurks.
Why Asbestos in Santa Monica Still Matters
Santa Monica saw its biggest building booms in the mid-20th century, especially post-WWII. During that time, asbestos was commonly used in:
• Ceiling tiles
• Wall insulation
• Pipe wrappings
• Vinyl floor tiles
• Popcorn ceilings (a SoCal favorite back in the day)
So while your home may be steps from the beach, if it was built before the 1980s, there’s a real chance you’re cohabiting with asbestos—and not in a good way.
Unique Risks of Coastal Asbestos
Living near the ocean adds a unique twist to asbestos risks. Salt air and coastal humidity can accelerate the breakdown of old construction materials, potentially releasing asbestos fibers faster than in drier inland environments. We’ve seen this firsthand in Santa Monica—corroded HVAC systems, warped ceiling panels, and salt-damaged insulation all revealing hidden asbestos.
Our Process: Asbestos Testing and Removal with a Coastal Lens
We don’t just walk in and test with a clipboard. Our inspections are tailored to Santa Monica’s climate, building styles, and environmental needs. Here’s how we protect you:
1. Moisture-Aware Sampling – Our team checks for water damage and salt deterioration to identify areas of high risk.
2. Non-Destructive Testing – We respect your space and use minimally invasive methods.
3. Safe and Local Disposal – We follow strict EPA protocols and partner with certified disposal facilities in LA County.
4. Post-Removal Air Monitoring – Because we’re not done until your air is clean and your peace of mind is restored.
Why Our Clients in Santa Monica Call Us First
Our clients are often shocked when we find asbestos just inches from their living rooms or home offices. Here you can see the black on the floor in the bathroom (left). This black mastic did contain asbestos and had to be abated before new flooring can be put down. But they’re also relieved—because we specialize in coastal homes, and we get the details that others overlook.
We don’t just remove asbestos. We restore safety, trust, and breathability—right here by the beach.
Need a Santa Monica Asbestos Inspection? Let’s Talk.
Whether you’re renovating a vintage bungalow near Main Street or selling a condo off Ocean Avenue, we’re here to make sure you’re in the clear. At Fun Guy Inspections, we’re not just experts—we’re your neighbors, too.