Metro reminds residents: Test building materials for asbestos before doing home projects

(NOVEMBER 14, 2025) Metro, the regional government for the Portland area, is reminding people to test certain building materials for asbestos before starting home repair or demolition projects.

Every day, trucks bring construction debris to Metro’s transfer stations in Northwest Portland and Oregon City. Workers called spotters check each load. They look for materials that might contain asbestos, a dangerous mineral that can cause lung disease and cancer when its dust is breathed in.

Asbestos was used in many buildings from the 1940s to the 1980s. It can be found in old floors, ceilings, roofs, insulation, heating systems, siding, and electrical parts. When these materials are broken or damaged, tiny asbestos fibers can go into the air. This is unsafe for both homeowners and workers.

Because of this, Metro requires printed test results showing the material has 1% or less asbestos before you can throw it away at a transfer station. 

Materials that must be tested

Some of the building materials that may contain asbestos include:

• Interior ceilings and walls (plaster, textured surfaces, tiles)

• Exterior siding and stucco

• Vinyl flooring and adhesives

• Some types of insulation

• Roofing materials

• Window caulking and certain glues

• Electrical panels and wiring with cloth insulation

What you should do

1. Check the list of materials that need testing.

2. Send a small sample to an approved lab before you begin your project.

3. Bring printed test results and a demolition form when you take materials to Metro.

4. At the transfer station, be ready to explain what is in your load and show the paperwork.

If your material contains asbestos

You still have options. Homeowners can bring small amounts (up to two bags per day, under 25 pounds each) to Metro’s hazardous waste facilities. Larger amounts must be taken to special landfills in Hillsboro or The Dalles.

Metro says planning ahead keeps everyone safe. For more information, you can call Metro at 503-234-3000.