Before any renovation or demolition project begins, it’s critical to audit your property for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Many Pennsylvania homes, schools, and commercial buildings built before the 1980s still contain asbestos hidden in insulation, flooring, and other construction materials. Disturbing these materials without proper inspection can release microscopic fibers into the air, putting workers, families, and communities at risk for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
Why Asbestos Audits Matter
Even though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned most asbestos products decades ago, millions of older structures across Pennsylvania still harbor it. Renovations that involve cutting, sanding, drilling, or demolishing walls, ceilings, or flooring can send asbestos dust into the air, where it can be inhaled or spread throughout a property.
Conducting a thorough asbestos audit before construction begins ensures compliance with Pennsylvania regulations and protects everyone involved, from contractors to residents.
Step 1: Review the Property’s Age and History
Start by checking when the property was built or last renovated. Buildings constructed before 1980 are highly likely to contain asbestos in:
- Pipe insulation and boiler wrap
- Floor tiles and adhesives
- Ceiling tiles and joint compounds
- Roofing materials, siding, and textured coatings
If you’re unsure about past renovations or materials used, assume asbestos may be present until proven otherwise.
Step 2: Hire a Licensed Asbestos Inspector
In Pennsylvania, only certified asbestos inspectors and laboratories can collect and test material samples. These professionals know how to safely identify and document potential ACMs.
Your inspector will:
- Conduct a visual assessment of all suspected materials
- Collect bulk samples for laboratory analysis
- Prepare a written inspection report outlining confirmed asbestos locations
Never attempt to take samples yourself; improper handling can contaminate the property and increase exposure risk.
Step 3: Create a Risk Assessment and Abatement Plan
Once the audit confirms the presence of asbestos, the next step is to develop a management or abatement plan. Depending on the project scope, your licensed asbestos contractor may recommend:
- Encapsulation: Sealing asbestos materials to prevent fiber release
- Enclosure: Building barriers around asbestos-containing areas
- Removal: Safely extracting and disposing of asbestos before renovation
All removal work must follow Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and OSHA standards for worker safety, air monitoring, and waste disposal.
Step 4: Keep Records and Communicate with Your Contractor
Before construction begins, provide your general contractor with copies of the asbestos inspection and abatement plan. This ensures everyone on site knows where asbestos was found and what precautions to take.
Maintaining complete documentation also helps in the event of future property sales, environmental audits, or liability concerns.
How The Halpern Law Firm Helps
At the Halpern Law Firm, we’ve represented hundreds of Pennsylvanians whose asbestos exposure stemmed from unsafe renovations or improperly managed demolition projects. Our team helps victims and families understand their rights, pursue asbestos trust claims, and hold negligent property owners or contractors accountable.
We’re committed to raising awareness, because identifying asbestos early doesn’t just protect workers; it saves lives. Contact us at 800-505-6000 or through our contact form and someone will reach out to you right away.
Sources:
https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/protect-your-family-exposures-asbestos
https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/asbestos/prevention/index.html
