Start with an asbestos survey
Before work that could disturb building materials, the owner hires a NYC DEP-certified asbestos investigator to survey the work area and sample suspect materials. Common suspect materials in NYC buildings include 9"×9" floor tile and black mastic, pipe and boiler insulation, plaster and skim coat, joint compound, ceiling texture, roofing and window caulk.
ACP-5: the Asbestos Assessment Report
If the investigator finds no asbestos-containing material that the planned work would disturb, or only a minor amount, the investigator completes, signs and seals an Asbestos Assessment Report, known as the ACP-5, and submits it to DEP. The ACP-5 is a common requirement in the DOB permit process. For a full demolition permit, DOB requires an ACP-5 certifying that the entire building is free of asbestos-containing material.
ACP-7: when asbestos must be abated
If the work will disturb more than 25 linear feet or more than 10 square feet of asbestos-containing material, it is an asbestos project. The owner or an authorized agent files an Asbestos Project Notification, the ACP-7, through DEP's ARTS system at least one week before abatement starts. Larger or more complex projects can also trigger additional DEP review and permits.
What abatement involves
- sealed, negative-pressure containment of the work area;
- wet removal of the asbestos-containing material by licensed handlers;
- sealed, labeled disposal at an approved facility;
- air monitoring and final clearance testing before the area is reopened.
Plan asbestos early
Asbestos findings are one of the most common reasons renovation schedules slip in New York. Surveying early gives your architect and contractor time to file correctly and lets you budget for abatement before demolition starts. We help you schedule the survey, coordinate filings and complete the removal so the rest of the job can move forward.