Asbestos has been used in a wide variety of building products because of its durability, resistance to heat and low electrical conductivity. Although the use of asbestos today is strictly regulated, many homes and commercial buildings built before the 1970s were built with asbestos-containing products.

When Removal is Necessary

The removal of asbestos is not required unless it has been damaged. When damaged, the asbestos breaks down into loose fibers that can be easily inhaled. The loose fibers are extremely hazardous for workers handling the materials and for anyone in the area that may breathe in the toxic asbestos fibers.

Although asbestos removal is not required unless it is damaged, owners of homes and commercial buildings containing asbestos must keep an eye on the materials for any signs of deterioration such as water damage, tears or abrasions.

If the materials change or show signs of deterioration, a health inspector must be brought in immediately to assess the situation. If disturbed, the materials have to either be repaired or removed completely.

Requirements for Asbestos Removal

Asbestos is often damaged during the removal process, causing loose fibers to be released. Because of this, there are strict guidelines that have to be followed before a home or building owner can renovate or tear down the buildings. Following are some of the requirements:

Building Owners

• Building owners are required to have the buildings inspected for asbestos before any renovations or demolition work begins.

Workers

• Construction and demolition companies are required to obtain a written asbestos report from the building owner or sales agent before they can bid on a project. The report must be based on a survey by an accredited inspector. If the workers start the project and discover suspicious asbestos, they must contact the building owners within 24 hours.
• A copy of the report must be given to all subcontractors working on the project.
• It is the responsibility of the construction company to make sure the report is accurate and to notify all employees working on site of the materials containing asbestos.

Homeowners who do not use their houses for commercial purposes are exempt from the requirements if they do the work themselves. They are, however, required to provide all contractors and workers they hire with an asbestos report.