Asbestos removal in South Carolina is regulated on two levels: the state program run by SC DES (the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, formerly SC DHEC), and the federal EPA NESHAP rule. Together they set the rules for licensing, notification, safe removal, and disposal — which is why this work belongs with a licensed contractor.
Last updated August 2026 · By D.K.H.
If you own property in South Carolina and you’ve found — or suspect — asbestos, one of the first questions people ask Environmental Services of America (ES America) is simply, “Who’s in charge of this, and what are the rules?” It’s a fair question, and knowing the answer helps you hire the right people and avoid costly mistakes. Here’s a clear overview.
Who Regulates Asbestos in South Carolina?
Asbestos work in South Carolina is overseen at the state level by SC DES — the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services. If that name is new to you, you’re not alone: South Carolina reorganized its environmental programs, and the agency that many people still know as SC DHEC’s environmental side now operates as SC DES. The state program handles licensing of asbestos professionals, project notifications, and standards for how asbestos is removed and disposed of.
On top of the state program sits the federal EPA NESHAP rule (the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for asbestos). NESHAP governs how regulated asbestos-containing materials must be handled during renovation and demolition to keep fibers out of the air, and it requires advance notification before many demolition and large renovation projects.
Why Are There Two Layers of Rules?
The federal NESHAP rule sets a nationwide floor for protecting air quality during asbestos work. States like South Carolina then run their own licensing and enforcement programs that carry out and build on those federal requirements. For you as a property owner, the practical takeaway is simple: a qualified contractor has to satisfy both the state (SC DES) and federal (EPA NESHAP) requirements on your project.
Do I Need a Licensed Contractor for Asbestos Work in South Carolina?
For anything beyond a tiny, incidental amount, yes. Disturbing asbestos without proper containment can release fibers linked to mesothelioma and other serious lung diseases, and improper handling can run afoul of state and federal rules. A licensed asbestos contractor is trained to survey the material, contain the work area, remove the asbestos under controlled conditions, monitor the air, and dispose of the waste at approved sites — with the documentation inspectors and lenders expect.
Is ES America Licensed to Remove Asbestos in South Carolina?
Yes. ES America holds South Carolina asbestos license CO-000859 through SC DES, along with our federal EPA/AHERA/ASHARA Certification #20616, and we are bonded $1M / $3M. We’ve worked in asbestos and environmental services since 2009 across Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama, and our Anderson, SC office serves the Upstate. Every South Carolina project we handle is done to SC DES and EPA NESHAP requirements — so the work passes inspection and protects everyone on site.
You can learn more about our Anderson, SC office, asbestos removal across South Carolina, and our pre-demolition asbestos survey in Anderson.
Frequently asked questions
Is SC DES the same as SC DHEC?
SC DES (South Carolina Department of Environmental Services) is the state agency that now runs South Carolina’s environmental programs, including asbestos. Many people still know it by the former name, SC DHEC. For asbestos questions, SC DES is the state authority.
Can I remove asbestos myself in South Carolina?
For anything beyond a tiny incidental amount, it’s strongly discouraged and may be restricted. Asbestos releases hazardous fibers when disturbed, and state and federal rules govern its removal and disposal. A licensed contractor keeps the work safe, documented, and compliant.
How do I verify a contractor’s South Carolina asbestos license?
Ask the contractor for their SC asbestos license number and confirm it through SC DES. ES America’s South Carolina asbestos license number is CO-000859, and our federal certification is EPA/AHERA/ASHARA #20616.
Does NESHAP apply to a single-family home?
The federal NESHAP rule applies broadly to renovation and demolition that disturbs regulated asbestos-containing materials, with some provisions that differ for residential structures. Because the details depend on your project, the safest approach is to have a licensed contractor assess it before work begins.
How do I get started with ES America?
Call our Anderson, SC office at (864) 668-6238 or email services@es-america.com, and we’ll help you understand what your South Carolina project requires.
Have an asbestos project in South Carolina? Talk to a licensed local contractor first. Call ES America’s Anderson office at (864) 668-6238 or email services@es-america.com. (For federal background, see the EPA’s asbestos resources.)