If your strata building in Vancouver was built before 1990, asbestos could be hiding in walls, ceilings, flooring, or mechanical systems. Before any renovation, plumbing, or electrical work, the strata council is legally responsible for ensuring asbestos hazards are identified and removed safely.
Ignoring this step can result in stop-work orders, liability for worker exposure, and costly project delays.
This guide explains exactly what strata councils must do before approving any renovation or maintenance project — and how to stay compliant with WorkSafeBC and City of Vancouver requirements.
Step-by-Step: Strata Council’s Asbestos Compliance Checklist
1. Confirm the Building’s Construction Date
If your condo or apartment building was constructed before 1990, assume asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present until proven otherwise.
Typical locations include:
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Drywall joint compound
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Popcorn ceilings
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Floor tiles and adhesives
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Pipe insulation and boiler gaskets
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Cement boards or stucco finishes
Even small projects — like unit bathroom renos or HVAC replacements — can disturb these materials.
2. Commission a Building-Wide Asbestos Survey
A Hazardous Materials Survey (also called an Asbestos Survey or AHMS) must be completed by a qualified environmental consultant.
This report identifies:
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Where asbestos exists in common areas and individual units
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Material condition and risk level
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Recommended abatement procedures
A building-wide survey prevents each owner from duplicating testing costs — it can cover all shared materials (drywall, ceilings, etc.) used throughout the property.
3. Notify Contractors and Owners Before Work Begins
WorkSafeBC requires that anyone working in the building be informed if asbestos may be present.
The strata council must:
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Provide contractors with the Hazardous Material Survey
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Post visible warning signage where asbestos materials exist
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Notify unit owners about safety precautions before renovation work
Failure to disclose known asbestos risks can expose the strata to legal and financial liability.
4. Hire Certified Asbestos Removal Contractors
Only licensed, WorkSafeBC-compliant asbestos removal professionals can legally remove asbestos in British Columbia.
They must:
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Set up containment zones
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Follow negative air pressure protocols
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Dispose of materials at approved facilities
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Provide air clearance reports after removal
🚫 Never allow general contractors or handyman services to remove suspected asbestos materials.
5. Obtain Required City Permits
For major renovations or demolition in Vancouver, strata councils (or their contractors) must submit:
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Hazardous Materials Survey Report
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Proof of asbestos removal (air clearance certificates)
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Disposal documentation
Permits are managed through the City of Vancouver Building and Development Services Centre.
6. Document Everything
Maintain a building asbestos management file that includes:
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Asbestos survey results
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Abatement reports and clearance tests
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Disposal manifests
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Notifications sent to owners and contractors
Having this documentation ready protects the strata during insurance reviews, WorkSafeBC inspections, and resale due diligence.
7. Communicate With Unit Owners
Owners often assume interior renovations are their own responsibility.
However, under WorkSafeBC regulations, the strata council shares liability if unsafe work occurs in a building with known asbestos.
Send owners a memo outlining:
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Testing and abatement requirements
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Approved contractor contacts
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Strata policy for renovation approvals
Offer owners a list of pre-approved testing and abatement vendors. It keeps standards consistent and reduces risk.
8. Schedule Periodic Re-Assessments
As renovations occur over time, materials may change.
A professional reassessment every 5 years (or after any major work) keeps your asbestos management plan accurate and compliant.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to follow asbestos protocols can result in:
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WorkSafeBC stop-work orders
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Fines up to $100,000
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Contractor liability claims
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Insurance denial for related damage or exposure
In multi-unit buildings, these issues can impact every owner — not just the one renovating.
📞 Call Rocky Demolition and Asbestos Removal in Vancouver
Need help managing asbestos compliance for your Vancouver strata?
Our certified team provides:
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Full-building asbestos surveys
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Safe abatement and disposal
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Air clearance certification
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Permit documentation and owner notices
📅 Book your free strata compliance assessment today or call (888) 920-5335
FAQ (People Also Ask)
Who is responsible for asbestos management in a condo or strata?
The strata council is responsible for ensuring asbestos testing and safe removal before any renovation, demolition, or maintenance work.
Can individual unit owners arrange their own asbestos removal?
Yes, but only through certified contractors and in accordance with the strata’s asbestos management plan.
Do strata buildings in Vancouver need an asbestos survey?
Yes — if the building was built before 1990, a hazardous material survey is legally required before any renovation or demolition.
What happens if asbestos isn’t removed properly?
WorkSafeBC can issue stop-work orders, fines, and potentially require re-cleaning at the strata’s expense.
