Go to the site below for the most accurate info, laws, etc concerning asbestos.

Here is a link that might be useful: Asbestos EPA Site

My understanding is that the old plaster can very well contain asbestos, and also lead as well. A friend of mine, her daughter got severe lead poisoning from a crumbling plaster ceiling in a rental apartment they lived in.

Bottom line, is you need to be careful around anything that old when it's being demolished.

Don't panic. Yes, I have read that plaster can contain asbestos (not really old stuff, but plaster from the 20th century). Also lead - though mostly from paint.

Both of these (lead and asbestos) are not like dangerous chemicals or radiation, though; they are not dangerous if left intact, only as they degrade or become damaged.

I would seek expert advice, from a several sources. Pay particular attention to governmental sources who have nothing to gain from any remediation work. Be aware that these issues are right up there with the (in)famous toxic mold in attracting people who will "solve" your problem, starting with completely cleaning your wallet.

Any demolition work will have to be carried out carefully to keep the site clean and safe for you, especially if you are living in the structure at the time.

As for disclosure on re-sale, well that's more complicated. Perhaps it will complicate things, perhaps not. I doubt that the asbestos content of plaster is so significant that hanging a picture would release it, though I don't know that for a fact. Logically, though, if it were that big a problem, there would be more publicity.

Since it's always better to have an upside plan when faced with bad news, I offer this: Even if your plaster is significantly contaminated with asbestos, all that would be required to remediate and permanently end the problem would be complete removal and cleaning. This much better than, say radon, which must be dealt with forever. And it's 'way easier to correct than deteriorated lead paint, which can be a bear.

Does your contractor have a plan?

Molly~

Plaster walls can be dented by a finger nail or a screwdriver tip quite easily - asbestos sheeting will feel very hard. So in a plaster wall the painted surface will push in easily.Asbestos In Plaster Walls On an asbestos wall you will be able to put a scratch on the paint surface but pushing in will be very difficult.