Key Rules and Requirements for Demolition with Asbestos in Alabama
1. Pre-Demolition Asbestos Inspection
Before any demolition, federal law (40 CFR Part 61 Subpart M - NESHAP) requires a certified asbestos inspection of the structure, regardless of age or condition.
-
This applies to all public, commercial, and some residential buildings (especially if part of a larger project involving multiple units).
-
Inspections must be conducted by an Alabama-licensed asbestos inspector.
2. Notification to ADEM
A written notification must be submitted to ADEM at least 10 working days before demolition begins if the project involves:
-
Commercial buildings
-
Public structures
-
Multi-family dwellings (with more than four units)
-
Or if any amount of regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM) is found
➡️ Even if no asbestos is found, notification is still required for non-exempt structures.
3. Removal Before Demolition
If regulated asbestos-containing materials (RACM) are present, they must be properly removed prior to demolition using licensed asbestos abatement contractors.
-
RACM includes friable materials like pipe insulation, spray-on ceiling texture, or damaged floor tiles.
-
Non-friable materials may not need to be removed if left intact and undisturbed, but this must be verified by a licensed consultant.
4. Safe Disposal
Asbestos materials must be:
-
Double-bagged or properly contained
-
Labeled clearly
-
Disposed of only at a licensed asbestos disposal facility (ADEM regulates and approves these)
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations can lead to:
-
Fines of thousands of dollars per day
-
Project shutdowns
-
Legal action from ADEM or the EPA
Exemptions
Single-family residential homes are generally exempt unless:
-
They are part of a larger demolition or redevelopment project
-
They are being demolished as part of a public or commercial venture
Next Steps for Property Owners or Contractors
-
Hire a licensed asbestos inspector to conduct a survey.
-
Submit the ADEM Demolition Notification Form (even if no asbestos is found).
-
If asbestos is present:
-
Hire an Alabama-licensed abatement contractor
-
Complete removal before demolition
-
-
Keep records of the inspection, removal, and disposal for compliance.
If you're looking to clear land for new construction or prepare a teardown in Baldwin County or the Gulf Shores–Orange Beach area, feel free to reach out. I can connect you with trusted inspectors, contractors, and help ensure all ADEM and EPA guidelines are followed before listing or breaking ground.
#searchthegulf #meredithamon #becausewelivehere
Search Coastal Alabama Homes and Real Estate For Sale
- All Listings
.gif){kind=logo}
Orange Beach, Alabama Rental Homes and Investment Properties | SearchTheGulf.com
Orange Beach, Alabama Rental Homes and Investment Properties
Orange Beach, Alabama Rental Homes and Properties: What Really Rents, What’s Restricted, and How to Get Ahead
By Meredith Folger
I live and work right here on the Alabama Gulf Coast, and I watch our rental market every week because…
Orange Beach vs. Gulf Shores: Homes vs. Condos in the $350k–$500k Range
Perdido Key Beach Mouse & New Construction: Guide | Meredith Folger
Ask A Question or Sign Up To See New Real Estate Listings Before Your Competition
When it comes to finding the home of your dreams in a fast-paced market, knowing about new listings as soon as they are available is part of our competitive advantage.Sign up to see new listings in an area or specific community. Contact Meredith with any questions you may have.