Many older apartment buildings still contain hazardous materials like asbestos and lead-based paint. While some owners may downplay the risks or feel tempted to cut corners during renovation work, doing so can lead to serious consequences.

Improper removal can expose workers and tenants to harmful toxins and result in environmental contamination. Violating state and federal regulations can also bring steep fines, legal action, and even jail time. Property owners are strongly encouraged to work with licensed professionals and follow proper abatement procedures to stay compliant and protect their investment.

Case Studies

In a widely publicized case in 2018, a West Hollywood apartment complex was shut down after a South Coast Air Quality Management District inspector found asbestos at a construction site following an anonymous tip.  L.A. Fire and Hazmat officials formally decontaminated more than 15 units, whose inhabitants were ordered to vacate the building and leave everything behind, even their cars. A criminal investigation ensued.

In another case, a federal appellate court in Chicago in 2013 upheld a lower court’s 10-year prison sentence for a sprinkler contractor who removed asbestos from piping without the proper training or licensing, and disposed of the material in dumpsters and abandoned farmhouses.

Figures for 2020 showed that the EPA opened 247 criminal investigations (despite limitations during the pandemic). Criminal cases charged in 2019 resulted in a 94% conviction rate among those brought to trial, the EPA reported.

What does the law require?

Asbestos is a dangerous carcinogen, and exposure to high levels of lead can cause anemia, weakness and kidney and brain damage.

There are many laws regulating the testing and treatment of asbestos, lead and other potential hazardous materials used in older structures, particularly those built prior to 1979.

Whenever asbestos or lead are found, state, local and Environmental Protection Agency offices must be notified.  The National Emission Standards of Hazardous Air Pollutants requires that work areas be sealed off and that waste be disposed at a hazardous materials facility. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration mandates strict safety protocols for workers, who are at risk of cancer, kidney and lung problems, even death when exposed.

It Pays to Do Things Right

Selecting the right contractor for dealing with environmental issues and other unexpected twists that may arise during construction of building renovations, seismic retrofits and other projects will help ensure that laws and safety protocols are followed.  Doing so protects building owners and management companies from liabilities associated with the improper handling and disposal of toxic substances.

Generally speaking, a reputable company with a solid track record and decades of experience like Optimum Seismic is going to follow the letter of the law. And, in the rare instance where something is not done right, that company — based on its name and solid reputation in the industry, its licensure and bonded status — is going to assume responsibility for its actions.

A fly-by-night company, one more likely to bypass regulations for the sake of slipping in a lower bid on a project, probably won’t stick around if legal problems arise.

Protect yourself by making sure you select a contractor who will follow the law, do the job right, and deliver your project on time and on budget.

Call Optimum Seismic at (323) 678-4686 or visit optimumseismic.com for more information.

The Optimum Seismic team has been making California cities safer since 1984 by providing full-service earthquake engineering, steel fabrication and construction services for multifamily residential, commercial and industrial buildings. With more than 4,000 earthquake retrofit and renovation projects completed, Optimum Seismic’s work includes soft-story multifamily apartments, tilt-up, non-ductile concrete, steel moment frame and unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings. To arrange a complimentary assessment of your building’s earthquake resilience, contact Optimum Seismic at (833) 978-7664 or visit optimumseismic.com.