Why a Good Faith Inspection Matters
Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos Good Faith Inspections
What is an asbestos Good Faith Inspection?
A Good Faith Inspection (GFI) is a required asbestos inspection that identifies asbestos-containing materials before construction, renovation, remodeling, or demolition activities begin.
The survey must locate, sample, and assess all suspect materials, even those hidden behind walls or ceilings, to determine if they contain asbestos.
The GFI report provides written documentation confirming whether asbestos is present and outlines safe handling or removal procedures in compliance with state and federal laws.
Who requires it?
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) enforces asbestos regulations under WAC 296-62-07721.
This rule mandates that building owners and employers conduct a Good Faith Inspection to protect employees and the public from exposure to airborne asbestos fibers.
Local air authorities and the Washington Department of Ecology may also require survey documentation before issuing demolition or renovation permits.
Learn more from Washington L&I
Who can perform a Good Faith Inspection?
Only individuals with AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) certification, accredited under EPA guidelines, can legally perform a Good Faith Inspection in Washington.
- Identify and assess suspect asbestos materials
- Safely collect representative samples
- Interpret laboratory results (via NVLAP-accredited labs)
- Prepare detailed reports that meet L&I and WSDOT documentation requirements
A-Tech Consulting’s inspectors are fully AHERA-certified and experienced in surveying schools, healthcare facilities, government properties, and commercial sites throughout Washington and California.
When is a Good Faith Inspection required?
A GFI is required before any activity that could disturb building materials, including:
- Renovations and remodels
- Demolitions or partial demolitions
- Maintenance or repair work (even minor tasks)
- Tenant improvements or utility upgrades
If a contractor or property owner cannot demonstrate that a GFI was completed before work begins, L&I can issue stop-work orders and fines until compliance is achieved.
What materials commonly contain asbestos?
According to WSDOT and L&I, asbestos was historically used in thousands of building products for its heat resistance and strength. Common materials that may contain asbestos include:
- Thermal insulation (pipes, boilers, ductwork)
- Floor tiles, mastic, and sheet vinyl
- Ceiling tiles and textured coatings (popcorn ceilings)
- Roofing materials and shingles
- Cement siding and transite panels
- Fireproofing and spray-applied coatings
- Joint compounds, caulking, and adhesives
Even buildings constructed as late as the 1980s can contain asbestos, making pre-work surveys essential for worker safety and liability prevention.
See WSDOT Environmental Manual, Chapter 447
How is a Good Faith Inspection conducted?
- Desktop Review: Inspectors review building plans, prior asbestos reports, and construction history.
- Site Inspection: A certified inspector conducts a visual assessment of all areas affected by upcoming work.
- Sampling & Laboratory Analysis: Representative bulk samples of suspect materials are collected and analyzed by an NVLAP-accredited laboratory.
- Documentation & Reporting: Results are compiled into a written report identifying ACM locations, quantities, and condition, along with recommendations for abatement or management.
The completed GFI report must be kept on-site and available for review by L&I or local air authority inspectors.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Failing to conduct a Good Faith Inspection can result in serious consequences. Under L&I enforcement:
- Fines of $250 per day, per violation may apply.
- Stop-work orders can halt construction until compliance is verified.
- Violations can increase liability risk and trigger costly project delays.
Beyond the financial impact, non-compliance compromises worker health and public trust, especially if asbestos fibers are released into occupied spaces or the environment.
Are there any exceptions?
Yes – WAC 296-62-07721 allows limited exceptions when there is “reasonable certainty” that asbestos will not be disturbed. For example:
- When written documentation clearly shows no asbestos materials are present in the work area.
- When the structure was constructed entirely of non-asbestos materials after 1990, and this can be verified.
However, these cases are rare. Most renovation and demolition projects still require a formal survey to avoid risk and ensure regulatory compliance.
How does A-Tech Consulting help with asbestos compliance?
- AHERA-Certified Inspections: Professional surveys performed by experienced inspectors.
- Quick Turnaround Reports: Timely documentation to prevent project delays.
- Multi-Facility Coverage: Efficient support for school districts, municipalities, and large property portfolios.
- Compliance Support: Assistance with WSDOT, L&I, and Department of Ecology requirements.
- Sampling & Analysis: NVLAP-accredited lab coordination for reliable results.
Whether you’re managing a school modernization, public infrastructure upgrade, or private remodel, A-Tech’s team ensures your project meets all state and federal asbestos safety requirements, protecting your team, your budget, and your reputation.
Why Compliance Protects More Than Your Project
Conducting an asbestos Good Faith Inspection isn’t just a legal step, it’s a safety promise.
By confirming materials before they’re disturbed, contractors and owners prevent unnecessary exposure, reduce liability, and keep projects on schedule.
With decades of experience and certified environmental professionals across the West Coast, A-Tech helps clients achieve full asbestos compliance with accuracy, integrity, and care.
Request an Asbestos Good Faith Inspection Consultation Today
