Delaware Asbestos Regulations

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed December 11, 2018

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Before its potential to cause deadly illnesses was fully understood, the versatile and naturally occurring mineral asbestos was broadly used in building construction, shipbuilding, and other applications where fire- and heat-resistance is important. The use of asbestos also correlated with a building boom in the United States during much of the 20th century. So while it is no longer approved for use in new construction -- given its links to mesothelioma and other deadly diseases -- the material remains trapped in these buildings and can become exposed and airborne during renovation or demolition projects. This is why Delaware and other states (in addition to the federal government) regulate such activities.

The following information highlights Delaware's regulations involving the handling of asbestos and asbestos-contain materials.

Delaware Asbestos Regulations at a Glance

Statutes and Codes
Asbestos Regulatory Agencies

Federal:

Delaware:
Asbestos Removal/Abatement
  • Before removing asbestos-containing materials during renovation or demolition of a structure containing asbestos, owners are advised (and may be required) to have an inspection by a Delaware licensed asbestos inspector.
  • Owners or asbestos and/or demolition contractors must notify USEPA (and DNREC, as required) at least 10 business days prior to any activity which may disturb asbestos-containing materials. This notification is required for all building demolition projects, regardless of the amount of asbestos present, and even when no asbestos is present.
  • Homeowners may remove asbestos-containing materials themselves under certain conditions.
  • Facility owners and fire companies conducting demolitions for fire training must meet the permit and notification requirements outlined in the Delaware Open Burning Program.
  • Licensed Asbestos Abatement Contractors
  • Disposal: A homeowner may contact the Delaware Solid Waste Authority (DSWA) and make arrangements to bring their asbestos-containing material to one of DSWA’s transfer stations or landfills.
More Information: Contacts

Asbestos management and demolition or renovation forms or procedures in Delaware:

Asbestos Management & Control Program
Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control
State Street Commons
100 W. Water Street, Suite 6A
Dover, DE 19904
Phone: 302-739-9402

Asbestos disposal locations and waste haulers:

Solid Waste & Hazardous Waste Section
Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19901
302-739-9403

Delaware Licensed Asbestos Inspection Firms and Abatement Contractors:

Office of Management & Budget
Division of Facilities Management
302-739-5644
http://dfm.delaware.gov/envsrv/asbestos/

Note: State regulations are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Research the Law

Maryland Asbestos Regulations: Related Resources

Get Legal Help With Your Delaware Asbestos Claim

Asbestos is a silent killer and can lie dormant for decades after exposure before causing illness, so it's important that anyone working with the substance takes proper precautions. If you have to remove asbestos-containing materials from your home or business, make sure you're in compliance. But if you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, consider speaking with a Delaware injury lawyer today.

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