Not every asbestos-containing material requires immediate removal. Under MassDEP 454 CMR 22.00, asbestos materials that are in good condition and not being disturbed can sometimes be managed through encapsulation — a process that seals the fibers in place rather than removing them. This option is most commonly used by landlords and property owners managing intact materials in buildings not currently undergoing renovation.
Encapsulation is not a permanent solution, and it does not eliminate compliance obligations around asbestos management. We conduct a thorough condition assessment before recommending encapsulation as an approach, and we provide full documentation of the scope and method so the record is clear for future transactions, renovations, and inspections.

Before encapsulation can be considered, we assess the condition of the asbestos-containing material and confirm that it qualifies for management in place under MassDEP regulations. Damaged, friable, or deteriorating materials typically require removal rather than encapsulation.
We apply appropriate encapsulant materials — either penetrating sealants that bind fibers within the matrix or bridging encapsulants that coat the surface — based on the material type and condition. Application is done by licensed contractors using proper respiratory protection and containment.
Encapsulated asbestos must be documented and tracked through an Operations & Maintenance program. We provide the initial encapsulation report and can support clients in developing an O&M plan that meets Somerville ISD and MassDEP expectations.
Proudly serving Somerville, Cambridge, Everett, Chelsea, Lynn and Quincy for 9+ years.
From residential abatement in Somerville's triple-deckers to commercial projects in active renovation corridors, we handle every scope of licensed asbestos abatement and testing in this market. Each service is backed by full MassDEP compliance documentation and professional air clearance testing.

Somerville is our home base, but our licensed abatement team serves the surrounding Greater Boston communities where the same pre-war housing stock creates the same abatement needs — triple-deckers, older multi-families, and aging commercial buildings with asbestos-containing materials. We handle full MassDEP notification, abatement, and closeout documentation for property owners throughout our service area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Asbestos Removal can be complex, and we’re here to provide answers to common questions. Here are some frequently asked questions from our clients.
Somerville's pre-1920 triple-deckers commonly contain asbestos in floor tiles, pipe insulation, plaster, roofing materials, and asbestos cement siding. Pre-1978 homes may also have it in joint compound and textured coatings. A professional inspection before any renovation is the safest approach.
Massachusetts requires contractors to submit a 10-day notification to MassDEP before most abatement projects begin. This applies to renovation projects that disturb asbestos-containing materials above threshold quantities. We handle this notification process on behalf of our clients as part of every qualifying project.
Asbestos-containing materials in good condition that are not being disturbed generally do not release fibers. The risk increases significantly when materials are cut, drilled, broken, or renovated. If you're planning any renovation in a Somerville home built before 1980, testing before demolition is strongly recommended.
Most residential abatement projects in Somerville take one to three days depending on scope. A single-room floor tile removal might be completed in a day. A larger project involving pipe insulation across a triple-decker may take two to three days plus time for post-abatement air clearance testing.
Yes. Massachusetts law under 454 CMR 22.00 requires that asbestos abatement above certain thresholds be performed by a licensed contractor. All workers must hold a current DLS asbestos abatement license. Hiring an unlicensed contractor can result in regulatory violations and liability for the property owner.
After abatement is complete, an independent air clearance test confirms that fiber levels are below the safe threshold. We then deliver a full closeout documentation package including the disposal manifest and clearance report — required for MassDEP compliance and important for future property transactions.
Encapsulation is viable when materials are in good condition, not being disturbed, and not in areas undergoing renovation. It is most common for intact pipe insulation and floor tile that will be covered rather than replaced. Damaged or friable materials typically require removal.
Yes. Encapsulated asbestos must still be disclosed to buyers, and the encapsulation documentation is an important part of the property record. Proper documentation can simplify a transaction by demonstrating the material has been professionally managed rather than left undocumented.
Encapsulants have varying lifespans depending on the product and application conditions. Most quality encapsulants are rated for 10 to 20 years in stable indoor conditions. Periodic inspection is part of the Operations and Maintenance program that should accompany any encapsulation decision.
Encapsulation is generally less expensive than full removal for comparable material quantities since it does not require the same level of waste disposal or labor intensity. However, it leaves the material in place as an ongoing management obligation with its own long-term considerations.
Wondering whether encapsulation or removal is the right approach for your Somerville property? Contact us for a condition assessment and straightforward recommendation.
We pride ourselves on delivering great results and experiences for each client. Hear directly from home and business owners who’ve trusted us with their Asbestos Removal needs.

We hired them for a full residential abatement on our triple-decker before a major kitchen renovation. They handled the MassDEP notification, managed the containment, and had the air clearance report in our hands within 48 hours of completion. Exactly what we needed.
Maria Torres

I called after a contractor found pipe wrap asbestos during a boiler replacement. The team was on-site within two days, explained the MassDEP process clearly, and had everything properly removed and documented before the plumber came back. Professional start to finish.
James Okafor

As a property manager overseeing six units in Somerville, compliance matters. They helped us navigate landlord obligations under Massachusetts law, handled the full abatement, and provided all the closeout documentation we needed for our records. Highly recommend.
Patricia Nguyen
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