Asbestos

Mel_2

We recently contracted a firm to remove our oil furnace and replace it with a new gas furnace. We told them upfront there was asbestos in old oil furnace (it's original with house - 1930s.) We were told no problem, when two contractors gave us their estimate as not much there. Yesterday, the guys came and within 5 mins came to say we needed asbestos abatement as they weren't touching it. Apparently, there was more inside the furnace and it was cemented to the floor??? Anyway, abatement guy came out and said he would need to remove the old furnace, as asbestos is between each panel. We called our original contractor to ask for a discount from our original quote as they are nolonger going to be removing the furnace, and were given a song and a dance. Just wondered if anyone could shed light on what usually happens with situations like these? Also, we wondering where we stand if we can't come up with a solution? can't figure out why we would be expected to pay both of them for removing the furnace?? Am I missing something? Thanks

Al Letellier_21

asbestos

Mel, you are correct....you should not have to pay twice and if you heating guy won't discount his price, go somewhere else......there are lots of people in the trade looking for work. But don't necessarily settle for someone like the Maytag repair guy...the very good ones in this industry are usually always busy. Be careful and get referrals from friends and associates.

It is common place for the abatement crew to remove the boiler or furnace as they can do the job quicker by cleaning the unit in their facililty instead of in your basement. I have often quoted jobs like this,including removal and disposal of heating unit, but with a deductor if the abatement crew removes the unit.Good luck!