Planning a DIY kitchen remodel or tearing down an old wall in your home? In Washington State, skipping the environmental prep work can lead to massive health risks, project shutdowns, and thousands of dollars in fines.

Washington has some of the strictest asbestos regulations in the country. Before you pick up a sledgehammer, you need to understand the rules enforced by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) and regional clean air agencies like the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA).

• For Remodels: The survey must cover all materials that will be disturbed during the project (e.g., the specific drywall, flooring, and backsplash being removed).
• For Total Demolitions: A complete, top-to-bottom asbestos survey must be performed across the entire structure before a demolition permit can be issued.

• Filing a Notification: Before removal begins, a formal notification must be filed with your local clean air agency (such as the PSCAA for King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties). There is typically a mandatory waiting period (often 10 days) before work can commence.
• Containment and Removal: The work area must be sealed using plastic sheeting and negative air pressure machines equipped with HEPA filters. Workers must wear protective suits and respirators, and the materials must be kept wet throughout the entire removal process to prevent dust.
• Legal Disposal: Asbestos waste cannot be thrown in your standard residential trash bin or taken to a standard transfer station. It must be sealed in leak-tight, labeled containers and hauled to a landfill specifically permitted to accept hazardous asbestos waste, complete with a waste shipment manifest.

Before you start tearing down walls, make sure your project is fully compliant with Washington state laws. Ecosphere Environmental Services LLC offers certified AHERA inspections and fully compliant removal services to keep your project on track and hazard-free.

• Serving: Seattle, Tacoma, Renton, Bellevue, Lynnwood, and surrounding areas.
• Call Today: (206) 966-1700