Prior to renovating your home or other structure an inspection must be performed to identify asbestos containing materials when areas greater than certain trigger levels are disturbed.  A licensed asbestos inspector will identify those materials.  Asbestos inspectors will also discuss the general steps necessary to ensure safe abatement of the asbestos.  The trigger levels are:

  • In single family residences, 32 square feet or 50 linear feet or will fill a 55 gallon drum.  Anything greater will need to be abated using a certified asbestos abatement contractor.
  • Other public and commercial buildings, 160 square feet or more than 260 linear feet or will fill a 55 gallon drum.  Anything greater will need to be abated using a certified asbestos abatement contractor.

Also, in the state of Colorado, if these trigger levels are exceeded a permit is required.  It usually takes ten days to obtain the permit.  The permit may require 60 days, if non-standard abatement techniques are used.  There are other methods for ensuring safety that do not include removal.  Such methods include leaving it as is (if the material is not damaged and not likely to be disturbed), enclosing the asbestos material or encapsulating the material.  Use this link to to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment to read more about asbestos prior to renovating your home.

Risk Removal is a certified asbestos abatement contractor.  Certified asbestos inspectors are found on the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment website.

Learn more at our residential services page.