Asbestos Contractors

An asbestos contractor is a contractor that specializes in asbestos removal in buildings by the Environmental Protection Agency EPA) or the state. It is not common for building contractors to be certified in asbestos removal; therefore it is necessary for one to be certified.

Asbestos is a material that was used commonly in building construction from the 1950s for insulation due to its ability to resist heat, and only much later in the 70s did the reality of its toxicity and danger become apparent. The inhalation of its fibers brings about cancer and asbestosis. The fibers are so tiny and unnoticeable to the human eye that there was no way of even knowing if you were inhaling the dangerous toxin.

Due to the fact that so many buildings were built using the hazardous material, it became a huge problem where removal was concerned. This was not something that could easily be dealt with, and plenty of research went into developing techniques for its removal, disposal as well as designated and approved disposal sites.

Why Do You Need an Asbestos Contractor?

There are industry-set regulations in place when it comes to asbestos removal. They must be done by qualified contractors knowledgeable in the procedures, which include cordoning off the area, methods of moistening the asbestos to prevent fibers from contaminating the air, designated clothing for the job and the use of proper breathing apparatus.

The removal isn’t the end though. Disposal of the material is also very important, and is closely monitored by state agencies and the EPA. The dangerous material must be sealed and disposed of in marked containers, and can only be disposed off in designated disposal sites.

When seeking out a potential asbestos contractor, inquire about their asbestos removal training, accreditation and necessary documentation to prove that they are trained, have conducted successful removal jobs before and have no complaints about their jobs. Your local state health department or EPA office will be able to furnish you with a list of professional contractors. Even then, make sure you check with the asbestos removal company directly. Don’t take chances and investigate all their credentials, past experience and reputation. Also take into consideration that there are no set costs for asbestos removal, so take your time comparing all these points before hiring your asbestos removal contractor.

Before Hiring an Asbestos Removal Contractor

• Asbestos removal is a dangerous activity. Before you hire an asbestos contractor, contact your local air pollution control agency, worker safety agency, and the Better Business Bureau (BBS). Since this is a serious matter, you want to make sure that the asbestos contractor you are letting into your home hasn’t violated any safety codes or regulations and has not been sued.


• No work should start until you receive a contract in writing stating the plan of action, applicable regulations the contractor must comply with, and a step-by-step plan on the clean-up.

Throughout the removal process, all workers must be properly geared and clothed. This also includes the use of proper gloves and respirators. Seal the contaminated area and make sure there are caution signs everywhere. No one must walk into unsealed areas, as you do not want the toxins to be brought into other areas. Make sure the contractor uses a wetting agent so that dust doesn’t circulate into the air.

Once the removal process is done, make sure your contractor gives you written confirmation that the task was completed properly according to procedure.