These days, a renovation contractor must try even harder than usual to reduce needless project costs. The costs of complying with federal and state regulations regarding asbestos may be a tempting target. But saving money there today could put your project under water tomorrow. Federal asbestos regulations apply to the renovation of any commercial structure and any residential structure with at least five dwelling units. In November 1990, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) amended these regulations to clarify that before any such structure is renovated, it must be inspected for asbestos. The revised regulations also clarify the responsibilities of owners, contractors, and other involved parties when certain amounts of asbestos-containing materials are discovered. In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), as
