Are you renovating or upgrading an old residential or commercial property in NYC and concerned about asbestos exposure? Your fear is valid! If the building is old, there is a high chance it contains asbestos in certain areas. If you will be aware of the process of asbestos abatement in NYC homes, you can take the right steps to protect your health and ensure the safe upgradation of an older building.
What Is Asbestos Abatement?
It is a process to safely identify the presence of asbestos, removing and disposing of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). It is a controlled process conducted by certified professionals to prevent dangerous fiber exposure that can cause serious diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.
Why Is Asbestos Abatement Important in NYC Homes?
Asbestos abatement is important in New York City because older buildings built before the 1980s contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, ceilings, and pipe wraps. The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforce strict rules for asbestos handling.
Plus, it is important to protect health because inhaling asbestos fibers is dangerous, and professional abatement minimizes this risk.
Step-by-Step Process of Asbestos Abatement in NYC Homes
Here is the stepwise process of asbestos abatement in New York City:
Step#2: Initial Inspection and Testing
Hiring an asbestos inspection team before any renovation or demolition project ensures a detailed asbestos inspection, ACP-5 or ACP-7 that confirms the presence of ACMs. Then they take samples and send them to a NY State Department of Health ELAP-certified lab.
After getting a formal report on the presence and location of ACMs, the next step will begin. Plus, without inspection, NYC DOB denies your renovation permit.
Step#2: Notification to Regulatory Agencies
If the formal report indicates the presence of asbestos, you need to file proper notice. The requirements include filing a Notice of Asbestos Abatement (Form ACP-7) with the NYC DEP at least 7 days before work. You can also notify OSHA and EPA according to your project size and scope.
Step#3: Hire a Certified Asbestos Abatement Contractor
DIY asbestos removal is illegal in NYC. Only licensed asbestos contractors can perform this task. The contractor must have a valid NYC DEP and NYS DOL certifications, be insured, and follow OSHA safety standards.
Plus, they need to provide a site-specific work plan and timeline. The perfect fit for asbestos abatement in NYC is gacenvironmental.net.
Step#4: Site Preparation and Containment
Before removal begins, the contractor must set up the site to contain airborne asbestos fibers. It includes the process:
- Sealing off the work area with 6-mil polyethylene plastic sheeting.
- Creating negative air pressure using HEPA-filtered air machines.
- Installing decontamination units and waste containment areas.
- Post warning signs around the area.
Step#5: Safe Removal of Asbestos Materials
Licensed NYC Asbestos abatement professionals carefully remove ACMs to reduce the risk of fiber release. The removal techniques include:
- Wetting asbestos to eliminate dust.
- Hand removal or using tools under controlled conditions.
- Placing ACMs in double-sealed, labeled, and leak-proof containers.
Step#6: Proper Disposal of Asbestos Waste
The team handles and transports the waste according to NYC DEP and NYSDEC guidelines. They use licensed transporters to dispose of waste at EPA-approved disposal sites and maintain waste shipment records.
Step#7: Final Air Clearance and Re-occupancy
The final step involves a third-party licensed air monitor to conduct air clearance testing. It includes performing air sampling using PCM or TEM, ensuring fiber levels are below legal threshold and providing an Air Clearance Certificate before re-occupancy is allowed.
Step #8: Documentation and Final Approval
After the removal of asbestos and cleaning of the air, the final step is to complete the required paperwork to get official approval. This includes:
- Asbestos removal report
- Air clearance report
- Waste disposal records
- Approvals from the NYC DEP and Department of Buildings (DOB)
What To Look For in Asbestos Abatement Contractor in NYC?
Whenever you hire an asbestos abatement contractor, always consider:
- DEP & DOL Licenses
- Experience in residential buildings
- Proper insurance & worker training
- Transparent pricing and timeline
- Good reviews and references
Final Words
Asbestos abatement in NYC homes is not an easy task that you can do yourself, only professionals conduct them and ensure your health protection and legal compliance. Your awareness is important because it helps you make informed decisions, avoid risks, and ensure a safe renovation or demolition project. I hope you now understand everything.
FAQs
How much does asbestos abatement cost in NYC?
The cost of asbestos abatement ranges around $2,000 to $20,000+, and it depends on scope, location, and materials involved.
Can I renovate my home if asbestos is present?
No, until ACM’s is safely removed and you receive proper clearance from the DEP.
Is an ACP-5 always required?
Yes, unless the building was constructed after 1987 and contains no suspect ACMs.