Asbestos Surveys and SMAQMD Rule 902: What Sacramento Demolition Projects Need to Know

Asbestos was used in building products for much of the twentieth century. Left intact it is not a hazard, but demolition and renovation can release fibers. That is why the federal asbestos NESHAP rule, enforced locally in Sacramento County by the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District (SMAQMD), controls how suspect materials are identified and reported. This article is a general overview, not legal advice. Check the current rules with SMAQMD for your project.

Where asbestos can hide

Buildings from many decades can contain asbestos-containing materials. Common suspects include some floor tile and mastic, texture and joint compound, pipe and duct insulation, roofing, siding and cement board. You cannot identify it by sight, so a qualified professional samples and a lab tests.

What a survey involves

• A certified inspector walks the building and identifies suspect materials.
• Samples are collected and analyzed by a laboratory.
• A written report lists what contains asbestos, where, and roughly how much.

The report decides whether abatement must happen before demolition and is generally part of the documentation for notification.

Where SMAQMD's rule fits

SMAQMD administers its asbestos rule, Rule 902, which implements federal requirements for demolition and certain renovation work in Sacramento County. Whether notification applies, what lead time is required and what fees are due depend on the project, so confirm the current requirements with the District before you schedule work instead of relying on a rule of thumb.

Abatement comes first

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

Lead paint and other concerns

Houses built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, and California has its own worker-protection and waste-handling rules. Commercial and industrial sites may have other materials of concern. Ask your inspector and contractor how each will be documented and handled.

Practical advice

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

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