I live in an apt complex built in the 60s. In my HVAC closet, I found chunks, including one like this, in the picture.
Does this look like asbestos fiber under the paper?
Drywall – Are these Asbestos Fibers
asbestosdrywall
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Based upon the description, the hazard of asbestos has been present on the property for many years and most likely through multiple owners. To date the current owner has not moved to mitigate the hazard, either through ignorance of its presence or due to disregard for the potential harm that may result.
As renters, the meaningful options are really:
- Convince your landlord to deal with a hazard.
- Stay and live with things the way they are.
- Move.
Perhaps your landlord remains unaware of the asbestos containing materials, in which case they should be promptly informed so that they may take appropriate action toward abatement/encapsulation. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is the agency responsible for regulating construction related activities in your area when asbestos is involved.
Given the level of resources often entailed in proper removal of friable asbestos containing materials, proper removal is likely to be the source of substantial disruption to activities in your home.
A typical residential rental agreement may not allow a renter to contract for the scope of work required for abatement of the HVAC duct system. It would be wise to have your attorney review your lease before hiring a company to disassemble or partially demolition any building systems.
In the end, the home may not provide the sense of safety that people commonly expect without meaningful action on the part of your landlord and should it be necessary to consider forcing the landlord's hand as an option, the end result may not be worth the energy required.
Often, people talk about “old-fashioned horse-hair plaster,” but the binding agent in old plaster walls was more commonly cattle hair. -searshomes.org
I am reasonably sure it's not asbestos.
Best Answer
Asbestos fibers are typically too small to see, with the naked eye. As mentioned in the comments, there are free services available, to help you find out.
When dealing with unknown materials, that you think might be dangerous; assume that they are, and leave them alone. Do not spray, do not break, do not touch; call a professional.