Asbestos is a hazardous material that although was historically quite common in construction is now heavily regulated.
When Do You Need to Test for Asbestos in NYC?
Full or partial demolition and renovations or alterations in buildings built before April 1st, 1987, in New York City require asbestos testing before you can get approval from the NYC DOB for a work application. In NYC, asbestos testing companies file their results with the Department of Environmental Protection. Architects must include a copy of these documents with their submission when filing with the Department of Buildings.
I am Jorge Fontan, an architect in NYC and owner of Fontan Architecture. In this post, I will discuss a general overview of asbestos testing requirements in New York City.
Asbestos Testing in NYC
Asbestos was a popular fireproofing material used in construction that can lead to severe and potentially deadly health problems when inhaled. When renovating an existing building, one must test for asbestos to ensure the safety of the workers and anyone exposed. Even minor alterations require asbestos testing. In New York City, you will test buildings built before April 1st, 1987, for asbestos before permits can be issued.
Asbestos testing, before proceeding with building renovations or demolition, can save lives and should always be taken seriously. The information provided here is based on New York City Asbestos regulations for Asbestos Testing and management. If you are planning a renovation, please check your local regulations; they may differ from the information in this post.
Asbestos Testing for Renovations & Demolitions
NYC buildings built before April 1st, 1987, require asbestos testing, even if the renovations are minor. As per NYC Buildings Bulletin 2009-031, buildings constructed after April 1st, 1987, are exempt from asbestos testing. Asbestos is harmful when its fibers or dust are released into the air and inhaled, potentially leading to serious health problems. For example, asbestos particles can be released into the air when a construction worker hits a wall with a sledgehammer.
The asbestos testing company will file the test results with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
In NYC, removing a wall is an example of work that can require asbestos testing. We have another post if you want to read more about Removing a Partition Wall in NYC.
Who Tests For Asbestos?
An Asbestos Investigator handles asbestos sampling and sends it out for testing. An inspector will take samples from areas disturbed during the proposed work. A laboratory test will determine if there is asbestos present.
An ACP5 indicates that there is no asbestos present. If there is no asbestos, the agency that performed the sampling and testing will file an ACP5. As an architect, I would include the ACP5 in my application to the Department of Buildings to get approvals and a permit.
Asbestos Abatement
If there is asbestos, the testing agency will file paperwork for asbestos abatement (removal of the asbestos). You will need to hire a contractor licensed in asbestos abatement. When the asbestos abatement is completed, an application can be filed with the Department of Buildings to get a permit. Asbestos abatement will affect the cost of work, so it is crucial to figure this out sooner rather than later.
Removing Walls
Don’t Panic About Asbestos
Asbestos is very harmful but don’t panic about it. Always make sure to hire licensed professionals. Only laboratory testing can determine the presence of asbestos. Do not trust anyone who tells you that they know whether you have asbestos without performing a test.
NYC Asbestos Testing Regulations
In this article, we reviewed some of the fundamental issues concerning Asbestos Regulations in NYC. This post does not assume to cover every possible issue or condition but provides a general overview. This post is separate from experience and understanding of rules and regulations provided by all Authorities Having Jurisdiction.
Thank You for reading our blog post on Requirements for Asbestos Testing in NYC.
If you want to discuss a specific project with an architect, you can contact our office directly using the link below. We wish you the best of luck with your project.
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This post was written by Jorge Fontan AIA a Registered Architect and owner of New York City architecture firm Fontan Architecture. Jorge Fontan has earned 3 degrees in the study of architecture including two degrees from the City University of New York and a Masters Degree in Advanced Architectural Design from Columbia University. Jorge has a background in construction and has been practicing architecture for 20 years where he has designed renovations and new developments of various building types.
