What Is Asbestos Abatement?

February 28, 2026

Asbestos abatement is the process of removing, encapsulating, or enclosing asbestos-containing materials (ACM) to prevent fiber release. In Indiana, abatement work must be performed by licensed contractors under rules enforced by IPLA, IDEM, and IOSHA.

When Is Abatement Required?

Asbestos abatement is required when:

• Renovation disturbs ACM — Cutting, drilling, or demolishing materials containing asbestos releases fibers
• Demolition — Indiana IDEM requires asbestos surveys and abatement before demolition of any structure
• Damaged or deteriorating ACM — Friable asbestos in poor condition may require removal to prevent ongoing fiber release
• Building sale or refinancing — While not legally required, lenders and buyers frequently require inspection and abatement of hazardous material

Types of Abatement

Removal is the complete extraction of ACM from the building. This is the most thorough approach and permanently eliminates the hazard.

Encapsulation applies a sealant to the asbestos material, preventing fiber release without removing it. Used when material is in good condition and removal is not practical.

Enclosure builds a physical barrier around ACM — for example, installing drywall over pipe insulation. The asbestos remains in place but is inaccessible.

The Indiana Abatement Process

1. Asbestos Survey — A licensed Asbestos Inspector collects bulk samples and sends them to an accredited lab for analysis
2. Abatement Plan — The licensed Asbestos Contractor prepares a scope of work based on survey findings
3. IDEM Notification — Most regulated abatement projects require 10-day advance notification to Indiana IDEM
4. Worker Preparation — The site is sealed with plastic sheeting; workers wear full PPE including respirators
5. Abatement — ACM is wet-removed to prevent fiber release and double-bagged in labeled hazardous waste containers
6. Air Monitoring — Air samples are collected during and after abatement to verify fiber levels
7. Clearance Testing — A third-party inspector confirms the area is safe before the enclosure is removed
8. Disposal — Asbestos waste is transported to a licensed hazardous waste disposal facility

Who Can Legally Perform Asbestos Abatement in Indiana?

Only companies holding an Asbestos Contractor license from IPLA may perform abatement work. The licensed firm must have a licensed Asbestos Project Supervisor on-site at all times during abatement. Individual workers must be trained under IOSHA rules.

An Asbestos Inspector license only authorizes surveys and sampling — not removal work.

Find a Licensed Indiana Asbestos Contractor

All licensed Indiana asbestos abatement contractors are listed on this site with their IPLA license number and status. Browse asbestos contractors near you →

Always verify credentials independently at the IPLA verification portal before hiring.