A charity has been hit with an unexpected $13,000 bill after asbestos was found in the floor of its headquarters.The toxic substance was found by contractors starting renovation work at Beacon House in Hamilton for Bermuda Society for the Blind.The discovery means the charity has had to put on hold its plans to improve the building, on the corner of Dundonald Street and Cedar Avenue.Amanda Marshall, president of the society’s board, told The Royal Gazette: “It came to our attention that there might be asbestos in the flooring. We immediately stopped everything.“We contacted one of the local companies that does asbestos testing. They indicated there was asbestos.”Dr Marshall said work to remove the asbestos would begin on March 11, meaning Beacon House will close for a week or two for blind and visually-impaired users.“The rest of the renovations are on hold,” she added. “The asbestos removal has impacted our budget.”Four people attend basket and stool-making workshops at Beacon House, while several retirees receive stipends from the charity.It also provides training in independent living skills, orientation and mobility, and assistive technology for the Island’s blind and visually impaired population.Part of Beacon House is rented out by the society to Bermuda Diabetes Association. That section is not affected by the asbestos and will remain open.Bermuda Society for the Blind gets an annual $30,000 grant from Government and receives money from a trust but otherwise relies on donations.To make a donation, call Dionne Glasford on 292-3231 or e-mail bsfbinfo@gmail.com