Western Insulation Ltd. says attic vermiculite should be left undisturbed until tested, and that asbestos removal in BC now requires a WorkSafeBC-licensed contractor.

LANGLEY, BC (October 2026) – With many homeowners planning attic upgrades and renovations this winter, Western Insulation Ltd. is reminding owners of older Langley homes to check for vermiculite insulation before any work begins.

Vermiculite is a lightweight, pebble-like loose fill, usually grey-brown or gold, that was used in some homes built before 1990. Some vermiculite insulation contains asbestos. It is most likely to be found in older neighbourhoods such as Brookswood, Fort Langley, Aldergrove and parts of the City of Langley, sometimes hidden under newer insulation that was added on top.

“Vermiculite isn't a reason to panic, but it is a reason to stop and test,” said Preet Sangha, owner of Western Insulation Ltd. “We regularly see homeowners and even tradespeople about to install pot lights or top up an attic without knowing what's up there. A lab test is quick and inexpensive, and it tells you exactly what you're dealing with before anyone spends money on the wrong fix.”

Since January 1, 2024, asbestos abatement work in British Columbia must be carried out by an employer holding a WorkSafeBC asbestos abatement licence, using certified workers. Western Insulation advises homeowners who suspect vermiculite to:

avoid disturbing it, vacuuming it or storing items on it
have a sample tested by an accredited laboratory
use a WorkSafeBC-licensed abatement contractor if the result is positive
air seal and reinsulate once the attic has been cleared

Buyers of older homes are encouraged to test during their subject period, when results and written estimates can still inform an offer. Sellers who test before listing can share the results with buyers and avoid surprises during inspections. Once an attic is cleared, new insulation added by a Home Performance Contractor Network member can qualify for BC Hydro and FortisBC attic rebates of up to $900.

More information is available in WorkSafeBC's asbestos licensing guidance and on Western Insulation's insulation removal page.

About Western Insulation Ltd.

Western Insulation Ltd. is an insulation contractor based in Langley Township, British Columbia, established in 1998. The company installs attic, blown-in, spray foam, batt, rigid foam, basement and crawlspace insulation and soundproofing for homeowners, builders and strata properties across Langley, Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, and is BBB Accredited. Learn more at westerninsulation.ca.