EPA Asbestos NESHAP

The asbestos NESHAP (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants) is EPA’s rule to keep asbestos fibers from escaping into the air during demolition and renovation. It’s why buildings must be inspected for asbestos before they’re torn down or remodeled.

• Demolition
• Renovation
• Building owners

Who it covers

• Demolition and renovation of facilities: commercial, industrial and public buildings, and apartment buildings with more than four units.
• A single-family home is generally not covered, unless it’s demolished or renovated as part of a larger project, such as a highway project or a group of homes.
• States and local agencies often run the program and may have stricter rules, including for homes. See Asbestos Rules by State.

Key requirements

• Thorough inspection for asbestos before any demolition or covered renovation
• Written notification to the state or EPA, usually at least 10 working days before demolition (always required for demolition), and before renovation involving more than certain amounts of regulated material
• Remove regulated asbestos-containing material before demolition when it would be disturbed
• Keep it wet during removal, and seal it in leak-tight, labeled containers
• Disposal at a landfill approved for asbestos waste, with waste shipment records
• A person trained in the rule on site during removal

Renovation thresholds

Renovations must follow the work practices and notify when they disturb at least 260 linear feet on pipes, 160 square feet on other components, or 35 cubic feet of regulated asbestos-containing material.

Last updated: October 2, 2026