Who covers testing and remediation
Responsibility for asbestos testing can depend on the situation, but when there is reason to believe damaged asbestos is creating a hazard in the rental, addressing that hazard — including testing and remediation — often falls to the landlord as part of keeping the home safe.
If you report suspected damaged asbestos and the landlord has a duty to keep the unit habitable, the landlord is generally the party expected to investigate and handle any needed testing and safe removal or sealing. Tenants usually should not pay out of pocket to fix a hazard that is the landlord's responsibility.
Because the rules can vary and the stakes involve your health, it helps to document your concern in writing and ask the landlord to test and address the material. Keep a copy of that request.
If your landlord refuses to test or remediate damaged asbestos they are responsible for, you have options. A free, confidential review can explain who is responsible in your situation and how to push for a safe resolution.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.