Asbestos Surveys and Notification Before Demolition in Maricopa County

Asbestos was used in thousands of building products for decades, and demolition can release its fibers if materials are disturbed carelessly. For that reason, federal rules require an inspection before many demolition and renovation projects. In the Mesa area, those federal NESHAP requirements are administered locally by Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD), with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) active at the state level. This article is a general overview, not legal advice, so check current requirements with MCAQD.

What an asbestos survey is

A survey is an inspection of the building by a certified asbestos inspector (commonly AHERA-certified). The inspector identifies suspect materials, collects samples and sends them to an accredited laboratory. The report lists which materials contain asbestos, where they are and how much there is.

Where asbestos tends to hide

• Vinyl floor tile and the mastic beneath it.
• Stucco, plaster and joint compound.
• Popcorn ceiling texture and acoustic ceiling tiles.
• Roofing felt, flashing and built-up roofing on low-slope roofs.
• Pipe and duct insulation, and duct wrap.

Notification

Federal rules generally require written notification to the regulating agency before demolition, and they set a waiting period that is commonly described as about ten working days. Whether notification applies, and when, depends on the building and the scope of work, so confirm the current procedure and forms with MCAQD before you schedule demolition.

If asbestos is found

Regulated asbestos-containing material generally must be removed by qualified abatement professionals before demolition proceeds, and waste must go to an approved facility. Costs and timelines vary widely with quantity and location.

What owners should do

• Hire a certified inspector before demolition planning gets far along.
• Share the inspection report with your demolition contractor.
• Ask MCAQD whether notification and any dust-control permit apply.
• Keep copies of reports, notifications and waste records.

Mesa Demolition Co coordinates these steps with your inspector and abatement contractor. Call (714) 333-0178 to talk through your project.