Understanding the Risks of DIY Asbestos Removal
Asbestos is a dangerous material once widely used in homes across Chicago for insulation, flooring, and ceiling tiles. While it’s now banned in most applications, many homes built before 1980 still contain asbestos — especially in popcorn ceilings, pipe insulation, and old linoleum tiles. For homeowners considering DIY asbestos removal, the risks are serious and potentially life-altering.
Common Question: Is it legal to remove asbestos yourself in Illinois?
While Illinois does allow homeowners to remove asbestos in their own single-family homes, it comes with legal and health caveats. If not handled properly, disturbing asbestos can release microscopic fibers into the air that lodge in the lungs and can cause mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer.
Health Hazards Associated with Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos becomes dangerous when it is “friable,” or able to crumble easily under pressure. Cutting, sanding, or even disturbing asbestos-containing material (ACM) can release harmful fibers.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), even brief exposure to airborne asbestos can pose long-term health risks:
Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer linked exclusively to asbestos exposure.
Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition that causes scarring and difficulty breathing.
Lung cancer: Significantly more common in smokers exposed to asbestos.
Statistic: 70% of DIY asbestos removals fail to meet federal safety standards.
Source: EPA – Asbestos Guidelines
Legal Implications and Regulations in Illinois
Although federal law allows homeowners to remove asbestos in their own residences, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and Chicago municipal codes have strict guidelines:
You cannot legally dispose of asbestos waste in standard garbage collection.
You must follow proper containment, wetting, and HEPA filtration practices.
Violating asbestos regulations can result in fines of up to $25,000 per day.
In multi-family residences, rental properties, or commercial buildings, only licensed asbestos abatement professionals are permitted to perform removal.
Why Professional Asbestos Abatement Is Recommended
Hiring a certified asbestos abatement company like EHC Industries ensures full compliance with Illinois and federal laws while protecting your health and the value of your home.
Benefits of Professional Removal
Proper containment using negative air pressure systems
HEPA-filtered vacuums and wet removal techniques to prevent airborne fibers
Safe disposal at licensed hazardous waste facilities
Ensuring Safe and Compliant Removal
Certified professionals are trained under OSHA and EPA guidelines, carry specialized insurance, and follow strict safety protocols. This gives you peace of mind that your family, neighbors, and property are protected from toxic exposure.
Leave It to the Pros
While the law may technically allow homeowners to attempt asbestos removal, the risks and legal pitfalls make it highly unadvisable. Inhaling even a small number of fibers can have deadly consequences years later.
If you suspect asbestos in your Chicago home, don’t go it alone. Contact EHC Industries — Chicago’s trusted remediation experts — for a safe, thorough, and code-compliant solution.
Call Today for a Free Asbestos Inspection
Protect your health and your home. Reach out to EHC Industries for a no-obligation consultation.
📍 Serving Chicago and surrounding suburbs with certified remediation services.
🌐 www.ehcindustries.com