Homeowner guide
Asbestos before you remodel (Colorado)
General info only. Check with a licensed pro and your local building department.
If in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional.
Colorado has state rules for disturbing materials that may contain asbestos.
What the sources say
| Topic | What the source says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Any age | CDPHE: buildings of any age may contain asbestos-containing materials. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Home trigger levels | For single-family homes, the trigger levels are 50 linear feet on pipes, 32 square feet on other surfaces, or the volume of a 55-gallon drum. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Inspection | If the work will disturb more than the trigger levels, a Colorado-certified Asbestos Building Inspector must inspect first. The inspector must work for a registered asbestos consulting firm. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Newer buildings | An exception may apply for buildings built after October 12, 1988, if the architect, engineer or a certified inspector completes the state form saying no asbestos material was used. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Removal | Friable asbestos material above trigger levels must be removed by a Colorado-certified General Abatement Contractor. A 10 working-day notice to the state is required before abatement. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Below trigger levels | Tell all contractors about any asbestos material that is below trigger levels or remains in the building. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
Not confirmed yet
- Unknown Options for owner-occupants doing their own work — call CDPHE; not confirmed on the page checked.
- Unknown Local permit add-ons in your city — ask your building office.
Checked 2026-11-02. General information, not legal advice. Rules change — confirm with the source. Report an error.