The Modern Homeowner’s Guide to Asbestos Compliance in Colorado

Why homes built after 1990 still require testing for building permits.

One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners in newer developments like Central Park, Timnath, and Highlands Ranch is: “My home was built in the 2000s—why do I need an asbestos test?”

While many believe asbestos was "banned" decades ago, the reality of modern construction and Colorado state law tells a different story. If you are planning a renovation or basement finish, here is what you need to know about Colorado Regulation 8 and your project.

1. The "Any Age" Rule

In Colorado, the law is clear: Buildings of any age must be inspected for asbestos before any building materials are disturbed. Unlike some states that have "cutoff dates," the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) does not exempt newer homes. This is because:

• Global Supply Chains: Many modern building materials (drywall mud, floor tiles, and mastics) are imported from countries where asbestos use is still common.

• The 1989 Partial Ban: The EPA's attempt to ban asbestos was partially overturned in 1991, allowing many products to remain on the market.

• Stockpiled Materials: It was common for builders in the 90s and early 2000s to use materials manufactured years prior.

2. Understanding "Trigger Levels"

In Colorado, you are legally required to have a certified asbestos inspection if your renovation disturbs "suspect materials" in amounts greater than:

• 32 Square Feet of surface area (This includes drywall, flooring, and even linear items like baseboards or trim).

• 50 Linear Feet specifically on pipes.

• 55-Gallon Drum (The total volume of waste generated by the project).

Important: These limits are cumulative for the entire project. If you are removing 10 sq. ft. of drywall in three different rooms, you have hit 30 sq. ft. and are nearing the limit for the whole project.

3. Demolition vs. Renovation

If your project involves a Demolition—defined as removing the entire structure or any load-bearing component—the trigger levels do not apply. * An asbestos inspection is mandatory for all demolition permits, regardless of the amount of material being moved or the age of the structure.

4. Why You Need a Certified Inspector

A "DIY" test kit from a big-box store will not be accepted by your local building department. For your permit to be approved in cities like Denver, Arvada, or Fort Collins, your report must:

• Be performed by a CDPHE-Certified Asbestos Building Inspector (CABI).

• Follow specific sampling protocols (The "1% Rule").

• Include a signed "Inspection" section for your Demolition or Renovation application.

5. What Happens if Asbestos is Found?

If our lab results show a concentration of more than 1% asbestos, the material is officially classified as Asbestos-Containing Material (ACM).

1. Notification: If you are over the trigger levels, a 10-day notification must be sent to the state.

2. Abatement: You must hire a State-Certified General Abatement Contractor (GAC) to remove the material safely.

3. Independence: Because we are a testing-only firm, we do not perform removal. This ensures our results are 100% unbiased—we have no financial interest in "finding" asbestos.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Don't let a "Red Tag" or a permit delay stop your renovation. Whether you’re finishing a modern basement or updating a kitchen, we provide the fast, certified reports you need to stay compliant.