What would be a common sign of potential asbestos presence in a building?

Vermiculite insulation is a common sign of potential asbestos presence in a building because a significant amount of vermiculite insulation in the United States was sourced from a mine in Libby, Montana, which is known to be contaminated with asbestos. The insulation, often used in attics and walls, can release asbestos fibers if disturbed or damaged, posing serious health risks. Identifying vermiculite insulation is crucial for assessing building safety, especially in structures built before the 1990s when asbestos-related regulations became more stringent.

In contrast, modern ceiling tiles are typically manufactured with safety standards that eliminate asbestos use, and older plumbing fixtures do not inherently indicate asbestos presence. Paint chips, while they can pose other hazards, are not directly associated with asbestos unless they were part of a specific coating that contained asbestos, which is less common than vermiculite insulation. Thus, knowing to look for vermiculite insulation is an essential aspect of identifying potential asbestos risks in buildings.