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Charlestown board approves encapsulation and repairs for two Swiss Pines houses with asbestos in drywall
Summary
Supervisors authorized encapsulation and other repairs for two vacant Swiss Lane houses after Solicitor Mark P. Thompson advised notification rather than removal is legally permissible; the board asked staff to obtain remediation estimates if removal becomes necessary.
Chris Heleniak, Charlestown Township manager, told the board that two vacant houses on Swiss Lane contain asbestos in drywall typical of early 1960s construction. Solicitor Mark P. Thompson, Esq. said there is no legal requirement to remove the material but tenants must be notified and instructed not to disturb the walls.
‘‘Before 1961 it’s a legal assumption that homes have lead paint and asbestos,’’ Thompson said, noting removal would be costly. Heleniak said encapsulation is a less expensive remediation option; the board voted unanimously to proceed with encapsulation, install french drains, and complete other proposed repairs.
Supervisor Hugh D. Willig asked for an estimate for full remediation in case future electrical or plumbing work requires opening walls; Heleniak said he would obtain estimates from the environmental firm used previously and that Fire Marshal Mark Koenig had an additional firm to contact. Treasurer Linda Csete noted lead disclosures are already included in tenant notices.
The board’s action authorizes staff to proceed with the encapsulation and necessary repairs; supervisors directed the manager to seek remediation cost estimates should removal or more invasive work be required.
