Managing Asbestos Risks During a Water Damage Claim

Asbestos Removal in Georgia: What Homeowners Should Know

Asbestos is a serious concern for many Georgia homeowners, especially those living in older properties built before the 1980s. When disturbed, this once-popular building material can release microscopic fibers that pose severe health risks. Whether you’re remodeling, cleaning up after water damage, or buying an older home, understanding how asbestos removal in Georgia works is critical for protecting your health, staying compliant with state laws, and keeping your property safe.

In this guide, we’ll explain what asbestos is, why it’s dangerous, how to identify it, and why professional asbestos removal is the only safe solution for homeowners in North Metro Atlanta and surrounding areas.

What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that occurs in rock and soil.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny, heat-resistant fibers. For decades, it was widely used in construction for its insulation and fireproofing properties. You can still find it in:

• Attic and wall insulation
• Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives
• Ceiling and wall textures (“popcorn” ceilings)
• Roofing shingles and siding
• Pipe insulation and joint compound

When these materials are intact, asbestos poses little immediate risk. However, once disturbed—through water damage, renovation, or normal wear—it can release airborne fibers. Inhaling or ingesting these fibers can cause serious diseases, including:

• Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer
• Asbestosis, a chronic lung condition caused by scarring
• Lung cancer linked to long-term asbestos exposure

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), no level of asbestos exposure is considered safe. That’s why proper handling and licensed asbestos removal in Georgia are so important.

Where Is Asbestos Commonly Found in Georgia Homes?

If your home or building was constructed before 1980, there’s a higher likelihood that asbestos is present.

Homes and buildings built before 1980 are most likely to contain asbestos materials. In North Metro Atlanta communities like Roswell, Woodstock, Marietta, and Alpharetta—where many homes were constructed in the 1960s–1970s—it’s not uncommon to find asbestos in:

• Insulation and HVAC ducts: Especially near older furnaces or boilers
• Flooring: Vinyl tiles or adhesives that darken or crack with age
• Walls and ceilings: Popcorn texture or plaster compounds
• Roofing: Cement shingles and siding panels

If you suspect asbestos, do not try to scrape, sand, or vacuum the area. This will release dangerous fibers into the air. Instead, contact a licensed professional who can test and, if necessary, remove the material safely.

Testing and Identifying Asbestos Before Removal

Before any asbestos removal in Georgia begins, proper testing is required. A licensed asbestos inspector will collect small samples of the suspected material and send them to a certified laboratory for analysis.

Professional asbestos testing is critical because:

• Visual inspection alone cannot confirm asbestos presence.
• Some non-asbestos materials look identical to those that contain it.
• Testing helps define the scope and cost of safe removal.

Once asbestos is confirmed, remediation experts like PuroClean North Metro Atlanta create a detailed plan to ensure the removal process complies with EPA and Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) regulations.

Legal Requirements for Asbestos Removal in Georgia

Georgia has specific laws governing asbestos inspection, abatement, and disposal. Homeowners and contractors must follow these regulations to avoid legal penalties and health risks.

Key legal points include:

• Only licensed asbestos abatement professionals can remove asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
• All removal work must follow EPA’s National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) guidelines.
• Waste disposal must occur at approved hazardous waste facilities.
• Contractors are required to file a Notification of Asbestos Removal with the Georgia EPD before starting major projects.

Failing to comply with these rules can result in heavy fines or insurance claim delays, especially if asbestos exposure affects workers or occupants.

Why Professional Asbestos Removal Is Essential

Asbestos removal is dangerous and should only be done by professionals.

While DIY tutorials online might make asbestos removal seem manageable, it’s extremely unsafe and often illegal for homeowners to attempt.

Here’s why hiring professionals matters:

• Safety: Licensed technicians use personal protective equipment (PPE) and negative air pressure systems to prevent fiber release.
• Containment: They seal off affected areas using plastic sheeting and HEPA filtration units to prevent contamination.
• Proper disposal: Professionals follow strict packaging, labeling, and transport requirements.
• Full clearance testing: After removal, air quality is tested to confirm that the space is safe for re-entry.

PuroClean North Metro Atlanta specializes in asbestos removal and environmental cleanup across Cherokee, Fulton, and Cobb Counties. Our team ensures that every job meets federal and state safety standards while minimizing disruption to your home or business.

Step-by-Step: How Asbestos Removal Works

Professional asbestos removal in Georgia follows strict safety procedures to protect your home and health. Here’s what the process typically involves:

• Inspection and Testing. Licensed inspectors take small samples from suspected areas and send them to a certified lab for analysis. This determines whether asbestos is present and helps plan the safest removal approach.
• Containment Setup. Before removal, the affected area is sealed with plastic sheeting, and negative air pressure machines are installed. This prevents asbestos fibers from spreading to other parts of your home.
• Material Removal. Trained technicians use wet methods and protective gear to carefully remove contaminated materials. All debris is sealed in approved containers for safe disposal.
• Surface Cleaning. Once materials are removed, HEPA vacuums and specialized wipes eliminate any remaining asbestos dust or fibers, leaving the area clean and secure.
• Air Quality Testing. Independent air testing confirms that the environment meets EPA and Georgia safety standards before the space is cleared for re-entry.

This proven step-by-step process ensures that asbestos is removed safely, thoroughly, and in full compliance with state and federal regulations.

How Much Does Asbestos Removal Cost in Georgia?

The cost of asbestos removal in Georgia varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. On average, homeowners can expect:

While it may seem expensive, professional asbestos removal protects your long-term health and property value. Improper or illegal DIY attempts can lead to contamination that costs far more to correct.

Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos Removal in Georgia

1. Can I legally remove asbestos myself in Georgia?
No. Georgia law requires licensed professionals for asbestos removal to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

2. How do I know if my home contains asbestos?
If your home was built before 1980, it’s best to schedule professional asbestos testing rather than assume it’s safe.

3. Does homeowners insurance cover asbestos removal?
In most cases, standard policies do not cover asbestos abatement unless it results from a covered peril, such as fire or water damage.

4. How long does asbestos removal take?
Most projects take 1–5 days, depending on the extent of contamination and property size.

5. What should I do if I suspect asbestos but haven’t confirmed it yet?
Avoid disturbing the area and contact a licensed inspector for testing and guidance immediately.

Professional Asbestos Removal in North Metro Atlanta

If you suspect asbestos in your home or business, don’t wait to act. The longer the fibers remain undisturbed, the higher the risk of exposure.

At PuroClean North Metro Atlanta, our certified team provides safe, compliant asbestos removal and restoration services. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Cherokee, Fulton, Forsyth, and Cobb Counties, offering peace of mind through expert care.

Call (770) 720-2320 today for a professional inspection and removal plan tailored to your property.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Asbestos was widely used in Georgia homes before 1980.
• Disturbed asbestos fibers can cause severe respiratory illnesses.
• Only licensed experts should perform asbestos removal in Georgia.
• Compliance with EPA and Georgia EPD laws is mandatory.
• PuroClean North Metro Atlanta ensures safe, effective removal every time.