Asbestos Surveys and CDPHE Regulation 8 Before You Demolish in Denver

Asbestos was widely used in building materials for much of the twentieth century. It is not a hazard when left intact and undisturbed, but demolition and renovation can release fibers. That is why Colorado regulates how suspect materials are identified, handled and reported before a building is taken down. This article is a general overview, not legal advice. Confirm the rules for your project with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

Where asbestos can hide

Buildings of many ages can contain asbestos-containing materials. Common suspects include some floor tiles and mastics, joint compound and texture, pipe and boiler insulation, roofing products, siding and cement board. You cannot tell by looking, so testing by a qualified professional is how the question is answered.

What an asbestos survey involves

• A certified inspector visits the property and identifies suspect materials.
• Samples are collected and analyzed by a laboratory.
• A report lists which materials contain asbestos, where, and in what quantity.

The report informs whether abatement is needed before demolition and is generally required documentation for the notification process.

Where Regulation 8, Part B fits in

CDPHE's Air Pollution Control Division administers Regulation 8, Part B, which covers asbestos control, including notification before certain demolition and renovation activities. Whether notification is required, what lead time applies and what fees or forms are involved depend on the project, so check the current CDPHE guidance before work begins rather than relying on a rule of thumb.

Abatement before demolition

If regulated asbestos-containing material is present, it generally has to be removed by appropriately certified abatement contractors before general demolition proceeds. Abatement is a separate trade with its own scheduling and cost, which is why surveys should happen early.

Lead paint and other hazards

Older buildings may also contain lead-based paint, and some commercial and industrial sites have other materials of concern. Ask your inspector and contractor how those will be handled and documented.

Practical advice

• Order the survey before you set a demolition date.
• Keep copies of the survey, notification and disposal records.
• Ask your contractor in writing who handles notification and abatement.
• Do not start selective demolition before suspect materials are cleared.

Denver Demolition Co coordinates surveys and notifications as part of demolition planning. Call (714) 333-0178 to talk through your property.