Our Guide To Asbestos Removal – Is DIY Residential Asbestos Removal Legal?

One thing that homeowners fear the most is asbestos taking over their homes. The first major sign that asbestos has seeped into a home is the presence of asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers are extremely small and do not have any color to them, so they usually disappear by themselves. DIY asbestos removal is not illegal, but it can be dangerous. If you are thinking about doing the job yourself, it is important to be aware of the risks and take all precautions necessary. First and foremost, always consult with an asbestos removal company to get a proper assessment of your home’s asbestos situation. They will be able to access your home and tell you what you are dealing with. A professional company will also be able to give you a proper estimate based on the severity of the problem. In this article we will give some guide to help you understand the risks of doing the job yourself and advise on some safety precautions that should be taken.

Are There Federal Requirements in Asbestos Removal?

First of all, there is no known federal regulation that bans a homeowner from conducting DIY residential asbestos removal. The rules and regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) clearly state that “federal law does not require persons who inspect, repair, or remove asbestos-containing materials in detached single-family homes to be trained and accredited.” However, the same government agency strongly suggests that homeowners hire a professional instead of DIY residential asbestos removal.

What Are the Local Restrictions of Asbestos Removal?

Each city or state has different regulations regarding the removal of asbestos in a residential area. Before you conduct any DIY residential asbestos removal, it is best to check with your local building department or health department to check its legality.

In most cases, homeowners are allowed to conduct DIY residential asbestos removal if it is undertaken strictly within one?s own residential property. The definition of property is, however, limited to single-family residences, such as houses, houseboats, mobile homes, mother-in-law, or detached guesthouses. It does not include mixed-use buildings and structures, such as apartments, duplexes, or condominiums. On the other hand, there are strong regulations regarding the removal of asbestos in a commercial establishment. In this case, only licensed abatement professionals are allowed to conduct the removal under the law.

What Are the Required Permits for Asbestos Removal?

Given that DIY residential asbestos removal in a single-family home is not illegal, demolition work or proper disposal may be a different matter. When it comes to obtaining a demolition permit, most government agencies require the removal of asbestos. Additionally, disposal of asbestos may also have restrictions depending on the local regulations. In most cases, you can only dispose of the asbestos materials at an approved facility.

Conclusion

Overall, it’s safe to say that the DIY residential asbestos removal in single-family property is not illegal in most cities. However, it is best to check with your local government agencies for regulations on asbestos removal and disposal. Even so, it is best to hire professionals who are equipped with the right knowledge and materials to remove asbestos efficiently. It is a crucial step to keep your home safe from the dangers of asbestos.

Professional Asbestos Removal Company Serving St. Louis

Contact ABC Environmental Contracting Services at (314) 668-1509 today for 24 hour asbestos removal, asbestos testing, or asbestos abatement along with any of our other services or get an instant quote from our website.Our asbestos removal team will come and take care of removing asbestos in your home.

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