Contractor Demolition

Before you start any demolition project, you must check for asbestos and then follow our requirements carefully – failure to do so can result in deadly health problems, or a notice of violation and monetary penalties. Also, check with the local building department: they may have additional requirements for demolishing structures.

1. Obtain the summary results of the asbestos survey.

The property owner or owner’s agent must have an AHERA-certified building inspector survey the structure for asbestos and communicate the results to you and to anyone who may come in contact with the material. Please keep a copy of the survey at the project site.

Watch the following video to learn more about asbestos survey requirements:

2. File an Asbestos/Demolition Notification

Regardless of whether any asbestos is identified, an Asbestos/Demolition Notification and filing fee must be submitted to this agency before any friable asbestos removal or demolition begins. This applies to all structures, including mobile homes, with greater than 120 square feet of roof area. Make a copy of the Notification you submit and keep it available for inspection.

Watch the following video to learn more about how to file an asbestos project notification:

3. Verify that all asbestos is properly removed.

All friable asbestos-containing material must be removed prior to demolition. Nonfriable asbestos-containing material may be left in place during the demolition, provided it remains nonfriable, but must be promptly transferred to a disposal container with a sign identifying the material as “nonfriable asbestos waste".

The Washington Department of Labor and Industries has stricter asbestos removal and specific training requirements for those who come in contact with asbestos. Please contact them for assistance, or call 1-800-547-8367.

4. Properly dispose of the asbestos.

Take friable asbestos-containing waste to an Asbestos disposal facility authorized to receive the waste. Complete and bring an Asbestos Waste Material Shipment Record (PDF) to dispose of the friable asbestos waste at the disposal site. Nonfriable asbestos-containing waste must be promptly transferred to a disposal container labeled "nonfriable asbestos waste." Please contact your local disposal company for further instructions.

5. Demolish the structure.

You must wait 10 days after filing an Asbestos/Demolition Notification to demolish the structure, whether or not there is an asbestos project

For more information: