Asbestos Inspection FAQs Answers to Common Asbestos Questions
Raw, mined asbestos
Use our Asbestos Inspection Wizard to see if it's required and view FAQs, below!
Is an Asbestos Inspection Required?
Answer a few quick questions to see your next step.
What type of project is this?
What type of structure?
For SFRD, will you disturb more than 32 ft², 50 linear ft, or the volume of a 55-gal drum of suspect materials?
For Public & Commercial, will you disturb more than 160 ft², 260 linear ft, or the volume of a 55-gal drum of suspect materials?
Is asbestos (ACM) confirmed or assumed in amounts above those trigger levels?
Inspection & Asbestos Report and State Demolition Permit Required
Demolition projects require an asbestos inspection by a certified asbestos building inspector and a state demolition permit.
Inspection Not Required by CDPHE (Recommended)
Based on your answers, an inspection is not required by CDPHE for this renovation, but it’s still recommended. Obtain any local permits and follow other regulations (e.g., OSHA). If plans change or scope increases, re-evaluate.
Inspection & Possible General Abatement Contractor (GAC)
If ACM is present above trigger levels, a state-certified General Abatement Contractor may be required to perform the work, depending on the type of ACM and work methods. You have options - Please contact us to plan safe removal of the asbestos.
Certified Asbestos Inspection Report Required
When the cumulative amount of suspect materials that will be disturbed exceed the trigger levels, the owner or contractor must have an asbestos inspection done, before disturbing materials.
Do I need an asbestos inspection before remodeling or demolition?
In Colorado, many renovation and demolition projects require an asbestos inspection by a licensed inspector
before work begins to comply with CDPHE and local permitting requirements. See below for detailed information.
How are inspection costs structured?
Pricing includes a flat visit fee plus per-sample lab fees. Standard is 5–10 business days; rush is available. Please use our anonymous instant quote tool to get an idea of pricing. Plus, you don't need to submit any personal information to get the cost of an asbestos inspection!
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found worldwide. Large deposits of asbestos rock was mined -- much like coal, iron oar and other natural rock deposits -- in large quantities due to its heat and chemical resistance. In addition, its fibrous structure makes it ideal for bonding materials such as wall textures, insulation, sheet vinyl, and organically bound materials such as floor tiles, giving them added strength as well as added heat and chemical endurance.
Why is asbestos hazardous to our health?
Because of its fibrous structure. Although our bodies can defend against physical contact and even digestion of asbestos, disease can develop when tiny, fish-hook-like fibers become airborne and are inhaled. Once fibers bypass the hairs, mucus and cilia and reach the lungs, white blood cells attempt to remove them; asbestos resists their enzymes and damages the cells instead. Over time, this can cause scarring (asbestosis). Other diseases include mesothelioma and cancer.
Do large amounts of asbestos need to be inhaled to cause disease?
Not necessarily. Asbestos-related diseases are “dose response,” meaning higher doses increase risk, but there is no known safe minimum. Even small exposures can lead to disease, and individual health factors matter. For example, smoking raises risk by 5–10×, and immunocompromised people are at higher risk.
Where can asbestos be found?
Many building materials are suspect because asbestos was used for strength, heat and chemical resistance, electrical insulation and durability. It has been used in surface finishes (texture, joint compound), thermal and acoustic insulation, fireproofing, roofing, and flooring (tiles, adhesives, sheet vinyl), among others.
Wasn't asbestos banned?
Much of the 1989 EPA “Asbestos Ban and Phaseout” rule was vacated in 1991, so some categories remain banned but others do not. Certain imported products may still contain asbestos. EPA does not track manufacture or distribution of asbestos-containing products. When in doubt, check with the supplier/manufacturer, review the Safety Data Sheet, or have materials tested by an accredited lab before installation.
Where is asbestos commonly found in homes and buildings?
Common locations include: textured drywall and joint compound, popcorn ceilings, plaster, 9x9/12x12 floor tiles and cutback adhesive, sheet vinyl and felt backing, pipe and duct insulation, attic insulation, roofing, siding, and some caulks or fireproofing.
Can I tell if something contains asbestos by looking at it?
No. You cannot reliably identify asbestos by appearance. The only way to know is laboratory analysis of a sample collected by a trained professional.
What should I do if I accidentally disturbed a suspect material?
Stop work, restrict access, avoid sweeping or vacuuming, and contact a qualified professional. Further disturbance can spread fibers. An inspection can determine next steps.
When is an asbestos inspection required?
Before renovation or demolition that may disturb suspect building materials. Many jurisdictions and permit offices require a survey by a licensed inspector prior to issuing permits.
What does an asbestos inspection include?
A site walk-through, documentation of suspect materials, representative sampling, chain of custody to an accredited lab, and a written report with results and recommendations.
Who is qualified to perform asbestos inspections?
State-licensed asbestos inspectors/consultants working under applicable regulations. Ask for current credentials and insurance.
How many samples are collected?
It depends on the types of materials and how many areas they appear in. Inspectors follow protocols to collect a representative number of samples from each material type.
How long do lab results take?
Standard turnaround is typically 2–5 business days; rush and same-day services are often available for an additional fee.
Can I take my own asbestos samples?
It’s not recommended. Improper sampling can increase exposure and may not satisfy permit requirements. Hire a qualified professional to ensure safety and compliance.
What happens if asbestos is found?
Your report will identify materials and locations. Depending on project scope and regulations, you may need abatement, repair, or to avoid disturbance. A consultant can advise on next steps.
What are trigger levels and why do they matter?
Trigger levels are regulatory thresholds (often by square feet/linear feet) that require specific notifications, work practices, or licensed abatement. They determine how the work must be handled.
Can an inspection be done while the property is occupied?
Yes—sampling is minimally invasive and targeted. Inspectors use containment practices to minimize dust and disruption.
Should I test for asbestos before buying a home?
If you plan renovations, testing before closing helps avoid surprises. Standard home inspections usually do not include asbestos sampling.
Can I sell a home that has asbestos?
Presence of asbestos doesn’t automatically prevent a sale. Disclose known information and follow local rules; buyers often proceed with proper planning for future renovations.
Do I have to remove asbestos before remodeling?
Materials that will be disturbed must be tested first. If asbestos is present and work will exceed trigger levels, licensed abatement is typically required before renovation.
Do contractors have to check for asbestos before starting work?
Yes. Contractors share responsibility to ensure suspect materials are assessed and handled properly prior to disturbance, per state and local regulations.
Which projects require an asbestos survey or permit?
Renovations, repairs, and demolitions that impact suspect materials typically require a survey; demolitions generally require documentation regardless of building age. Check local permit requirements.
What are the penalties for not testing first?
Violations can lead to stop-work orders, fines, project delays, and increased liability for exposure or contamination. Testing early prevents costly setbacks.
How are samples analyzed?
Building materials are typically analyzed by PLM (Polarized Light Microscopy). Some materials or situations may require TEM or additional methods. Results report asbestos type and percent.
What does “none detected” mean on a report?
The lab did not detect asbestos within the method’s limits for the sample analyzed. It does not guarantee all similar materials are asbestos-free unless adequately sampled.
Are your laboratories accredited?
We use accredited laboratories (e.g., NVLAP-accredited) that follow established analytical protocols and quality control procedures.
What is an air clearance test?
After abatement, air sampling and a final visual inspection verify the work area is clean. Passing clearance criteria confirms the area is ready for re-occupancy.
Who performs post-abatement air monitoring?
Independent air monitoring professionals or consultants perform final visual inspections and collect air samples to confirm proper clearance.
What factors affect the cost of an inspection?
Travel zone, number of materials, number of samples, lab turnaround (rush vs. standard), property size, and accessibility. You can get an instant estimate with our quote tool.
Do you offer rush or same-day results?
Yes. Rush and same-day options are available for an additional lab fee. Let us know your deadline when booking.
How do I schedule an inspection?
Use our online scheduler or contact us to confirm availability. We’ll discuss your project, set expectations, and send confirmation.
What’s the difference between friable and non-friable asbestos?
Friable materials can be crumbled by hand pressure when dry and more readily release fibers (e.g., pipe insulation). Non-friable materials are more durable (e.g., floor tiles) but can release fibers when cut, ground, or demolished.
Do all asbestos-containing materials need to be removed?
Not necessarily. Intact materials that won’t be disturbed can often be managed in place. Removal is typically required before renovation or demolition that will impact asbestos materials.
How should I clean up dust if I suspect asbestos?
Avoid sweeping or vacuuming. Stop work, restrict access, and contact a professional. HEPA vacuuming and specialized containment methods may be required.
Are you Remodeling, Renovating or Demolishing?
You may be subject to State and Federal Regulations requiring an inspection for asbestos. Avoid penalties and delays: If you are impacting greater than the trigger levels of suspect asbestos-containing materials ("ACM") - you must have your project inspected for ACM by a Colorado-certified asbestos building inspector before commencing work.
You may be subject to State and Federal Regulations requiring an inspection for asbestos. Avoid penalties and delays: If you are impacting greater than the trigger levels of suspect asbestos-containing materials ("ACM") - you must have your project inspected for ACM by a Colorado-certified asbestos building inspector before commencing work.
It is Dangerous and Illegal to Improperly Disturb ACM!
Asbestos can be found in these and many other common building materials: Ceiling textures, vinyl floor coverings and mastic, boiler and pipe insulation, heating and cooling duct insulation, ceiling tile, roofing products, clapboard shingles, etc. These materials may be regulated - a certified asbestos building inspector can determine which materials contain asbestos and which are regulated.
Asbestos can be found in these and many other common building materials: Ceiling textures, vinyl floor coverings and mastic, boiler and pipe insulation, heating and cooling duct insulation, ceiling tile, roofing products, clapboard shingles, etc. These materials may be regulated - a certified asbestos building inspector can determine which materials contain asbestos and which are regulated.
For ALL Renovation Projects:
Public and Commercial Buildings (other than SFRDs) - the trigger levels are: 260 linear feet on pipes; 160 square feet on other surfaces; or the volume equivalent of a
gallon drum.
- Buildings of any age may contain ACM; even those newly built may have ACM.
- Inspection: If the structures/components to be disturbed exceed the trigger levels, they must be inspected for asbestos by a Colorado-certified asbestos building inspector, unless the building was built after October 12, 1988, AND the architect or engineer who built it signs and submits documentation showing that no ACM was specified or used in the construction of the building - then no inspection is needed.
- If the amount of ACM to be disturbed exceeds the following trigger levels, then an asbestos abatement contractor must remove the material:
Public and Commercial Buildings (other than SFRDs) - the trigger levels are: 260 linear feet on pipes; 160 square feet on other surfaces; or the volume equivalent of a
gallon drum.
- Under many circumstances, a Colorado-certified General Abatement Contractor (GAC) must remove ACM that is regulated or may become regulated before it is disturbed by renovation or demolition activities. GACs can be found in the yellow pages of most telephone books under the heading, "Asbestos Abatement" or go to our web site for a current list.
- Notification: A written application to CDPHE for a notice/permit may be required, along with payment of a fee and a ten (10) working-day notification period (emergencies may be excluded) before the removal (abatement) of regulated asbestos-containing materials. ALL ACM waste must be disposed of at an approved asbestos waste disposal site - regardless of the quantity or the necessity for a notice/permit.
Demolitions, Destructive Salvage, House Moving
If you demolish, perform destructive salvage, perform de-construction, burn, destroy, dismantle, dynamite, implode, knock down, level, pull down, pulverize, raze, tear down, wreck all of a structure or structural components, or you move a house, you may be subject to State and Federal regulations even when there is NO asbestos in the facility. Demolition means: the wrecking or taking out of any load-supporting structural member of a facility together with any related handling operations or the intentional burning of any facility.
If you demolish, perform destructive salvage, perform de-construction, burn, destroy, dismantle, dynamite, implode, knock down, level, pull down, pulverize, raze, tear down, wreck all of a structure or structural components, or you move a house, you may be subject to State and Federal regulations even when there is NO asbestos in the facility. Demolition means: the wrecking or taking out of any load-supporting structural member of a facility together with any related handling operations or the intentional burning of any facility.
For ALL Demolition Projects
- Inspection: the building or area of the building to be demolished must be inspected for asbestos by a Colorado-certified asbestos inspector. Asbestos Consulting Firms and asbestos building inspectors can be found in the yellow pages of most telephone books under the heading "Asbestos Consulting and Testing" or go to our web site for a current list:
- Asbestos Removal (if necessary) may have to be performed by a Colorado-certified GAC. Removal, in accordance with Regulation No. 8, Part B, is required if the amount of asbestos-containing material that is friable or will become friable during demolition exceeds the trigger levels.
- A Demolition Notification Application Form must be submitted to the CDPHE, even if no asbestos was found during the inspection, along with payment of a notification fee and a ten (10) working-day notification period that is required before the demolition can commence.
During Demolition
- Recycling of materials, such as concrete or wood, that are bonded or contaminated with asbestos-containing material (ACM), such as floor tile or mastic, is NOT permitted.
- Demolition of a building that has non-friable asbestos-containing vinyl asbestos tile (VAT) or tar-impregnated roofing materials remaining must be completed without causing the asbestos-containing materials to become friable. Concrete floors covered with floor tile shall be removed in large sections if possible. Operations such as crushing, pneumatic jacking, etc. of materials containing asbestos are not permitted.
- When imploding or burning a structure, ALL asbestos-containing material, regardless of type or quantity, MUST be removed prior to demolition.
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