\When the wrong crew gets hired, things can go sideways quickly. This stuff can hurt people years later. Before anyone starts, make sure their credentials are real and up to date.
Montana DEQ requires anyone touching more than 10 square feet, 3 linear feet, or 3 cubic feet of asbestos to hold proper accreditation. Break that rule and you’re looking at fines and liability that’ll make your head spin.
Here’s what folks don’t realize: You need different people for different parts of the job. Montana has four types of accreditation and each one takes its own class.
The crew doing the removal is trained for that. The supervisor runs the site and has different training. An inspector comes first to tell you what’s there. On bigger jobs, a project designer puts the plan together. It’s not one size fits all.
At ACM, we hold Montana Registration #15653 95. We’re also HUBZone certified and we’ve worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on over 100 projects.
One of their project managers said we did an outstanding job, hit the deadlines, and kept the people in the building happy.
Key Point: Don’t just take someone’s word that they’re certified. Make them show you their accreditation.
Most people have no idea there are different categories here.
Every single one of these accreditations expires and needs to be renewed annually with Montana DEQ.
Companies like Safetech Inc. and Absaroka Abatement, well you need to verify their current status through Montana DEQ’s online system at deq.mt.gov. Don’t assume anything.
Key Point: A legitimate company will have multiple people holding different types of current accreditation.
Watch out for:
When it’s 15 below, you can’t just throw up some plastic and call it containment. Cold air messes with negative pressure systems.
If asbestos fibers escape the work area because some contractor didn’t understand how to handle winter conditions, you’ve got a problem.
The environmental remediation market hit about $127 billion globally in 2024 and keeps growing. That growth attracts fly by night operators who see dollar signs.
Key Point: If a bid seems too good to be true, it probably is. Proper asbestos work costs money because it requires proper equipment, training, and insurance.
Don’t just trust what contractors tell you. Here’s what to do:
The Montana DEQ website has a public database where you can look up contractors who are willing to be listed. That transparency helps. Legitimate companies want you to verify their credentials.
Proper accreditation means the contractor learned how to:
Skip that verification step, and you risk exposure for your employees or family members, failed inspections, and liability if someone gets sick 20 years from now.
How often do Montana asbestos certifications expire?
Accreditations must be renewed annually with Montana DEQ, and they all expire regardless of when you completed training.
Can I check a contractor’s credentials myself online?
Yes, Montana DEQ maintains searchable databases at deq.mt.gov where you can verify both approved contractors and project permit history.
Do I need certified contractors for small residential projects?
Montana requires certified contractors for any project exceeding 10 square feet, 3 linear feet, or 3 cubic feet of asbestos containing material.
What’s the difference between EPA training and Montana accreditation?
EPA approved training gives you the knowledge, but you must apply separately to Montana DEQ for your state accreditation before doing any work here.
What happens if I hire someone without proper credentials?
You become liable for improper removal, illegal disposal, contamination of your property, and potential lawsuits from anyone exposed.
How long do I need to keep contractor certification records?
Keep all documentation permanently as proof you used qualified contractors if future occupants develop asbestos related disease.