How Much Does Asbestos Tile Removal Cost? [2025 Data]

Normal Range: $1,270 - $2,440

The average asbestos tile removal cost is $1,880, with most homeowners paying between $1,270 and $2,440 on average. Cost factors include tile type, area size, labor, and disposal.

How we get this data
Modern bathroom with marble tiles
Photo: Bmak / Adobe Stock
Modern bathroom with marble tiles
Photo: Bmak / Adobe Stock
Cost Insights
  • Professional asbestos tile removal costs $75 to $200 per hour and is essential for safety.

  • Budget $5 to $20 per square foot for professional asbestos tile removal. 

  • Asbestos tile removal costs vary by tile type, ranging from $3 to $15 per square foot, depending on the material.

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Asbestos tile removal cost averages $1,880, with an average range from $1,270 to $2,440. Homeowners can expect to pay $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on the tile type, project size, and labor rates. Removing asbestos tiles is a specialized job requiring certified professionals for safe, legal disposal.

This guide breaks down the main cost factors, ongoing expenses, and ways to save, so you can make informed decisions about asbestos tile removal in your home.

Asbestos Tile Removal Cost Factors

Understanding the factors that impact asbestos tile removal cost helps you plan and budget effectively. Here’s what to consider before scheduling your project.

Tile Type

The type of asbestos tile in your home plays a significant role in your removal cost. Common types include vinyl asbestos tiles, linoleum, floor tiles, and ceiling tiles. Each material has a unique composition and installation method, which affects how difficult and time-consuming it is to remove. Older, deteriorating tiles or those that are glued down tightly tend to cost more to remove due to increased labor and safety measures.

Tile TypeRemoval Cost per Sq. Ft.
Vinyl $5–$15
Linoleum$5–$15
Floor $5–$15
Ceiling $3–$7

Size

The total square footage of tile to be removed is a key cost driver. Larger projects benefit from lower per-square-foot rates, while smaller jobs may have minimum service fees. Removing asbestos tile from a single room is less expensive overall but can cost more per square foot compared to multi-room or whole-house projects.

Area Size (Sq. Ft.)Average Cost
100$500–$2,000
250$1,250–$5,000
500$2,500–$10,000
1,000$5,000–$20,000

Materials

Subfloor or underlayment materials like wood or concrete can complicate removal. Tiles glued to concrete may require more labor and specialized tools, increasing the price. The type of adhesive and the thickness of the tiles also impact labor and disposal costs. Damaged or contaminated materials need special handling, which adds to your bottom line.

Material/ConditionCost ImpactNotes
Wood subfloorModerateEasier to remove, may need repairs
Concrete subfloorHighLabor-intensive, may require grinding
Thick tileHighMore time and disposal costs
Contaminated debrisVery highRequires hazardous waste protocols

Labor

Only licensed asbestos abatement contractors can legally and safely remove asbestos tile. Labor rates for these professionals range from $75 to $200 per hour or $5 to $20 per square foot. Urban areas or regions with high demand for abatement services tend to have higher rates. 

Certification, insurance, and project complexity—such as multi-story homes or difficult-to-reach areas—increase labor costs. All contractors must follow strict safety guidelines, which are built into the price.

Prep

Site preparation is essential for safe asbestos tile removal. This includes sealing off the work area, setting up containment barriers, and installing air filtration systems. Air quality monitoring and personal protective equipment for workers are also necessary. Pre-removal inspections and asbestos testing confirm the presence and type of asbestos. Moving furniture or appliances out of the space before work begins may incur additional fees.

Modern living room with tiled floor
Photo: Victor zastol'skiy / Adobe Stock

Tipping

Tipping is not expected or required for asbestos tile removal professionals. These are highly regulated jobs performed by licensed contractors, and their fees reflect the complexity and risk involved. If you want to show appreciation for quality work, consider leaving a positive review or referring the contractor to others.

Additional Cost Factors

Several other factors can influence your total asbestos tile removal cost:

  • Demolition of the underlying subfloors or structures if the tiles are tightly adhered.

  • Post-removal cleanup and professional air quality testing.

  • Permit and inspection fees required by local authorities.

  • Repairs to the foundation or framing if tiles caused damage.

  • Upgrades or finishing work, such as installing new flooring after removal.

  • Disposal fees for hazardous asbestos waste, which are strictly regulated.

  • Specialized removal for stairs, intricate layouts, or decorative features.

  • Encapsulation or containment if partial removal is required instead of full abatement.

Pro Tip

You may wonder whether it's okay to stay in your home while asbestos mitigation work is underway. Asbestos is a health hazard and is a risk to anyone exposed to the asbestos fibers. While there might be specific times when you can stay in the home during the mitigation process, it is not worth risking the health and safety of your family, leave your home.

Owner of True North Home Inspections, LLC

Asbestos Tile Removal Ongoing Costs

After asbestos tile removal, there are a few ongoing costs to consider for maintaining a safe, healthy home.

Maintenance

Ongoing monitoring for residual asbestos fibers is crucial if you want peace of mind. Periodic air quality testing in previously affected areas helps ensure your home remains safe. If you install new flooring or other surfaces, factor in the cost of maintaining those materials over time.

Operating Costs

You may need to invest in air purifiers or filtration systems, especially if recommended by your abatement contractor. These devices help keep the air clean and safe. Additional ventilation during or after removal can increase utility costs, particularly if you need to run fans or open windows for extended periods.

Repairs

It’s not uncommon to discover subfloor or structural damage during asbestos tile removal. Repairing or replacing these areas adds to your expenses. If water damage, mold, or other issues are uncovered during the project, you’ll need to budget for patching, refinishing, or remediation work.

Insurance

Homeowner’s insurance rarely covers asbestos tile removal unless asbestos was disturbed by a covered event like fire or storm damage. Some homeowners opt for supplemental insurance or riders for hazardous material abatement, which can raise your premiums. After asbestos removal, check with your provider about any potential impacts on your insurance costs.

DIY Asbestos Tile Removal vs. Hiring a Pro

Removing asbestos tile yourself is risky, often illegal, and not recommended. Strict regulations require certified professionals to handle asbestos safely. DIY removal exposes you and your family to serious health hazards and can lead to legal penalties.

Professional asbestos tile removal cost may seem higher at first, but it covers labor, safety, legal compliance, and proper disposal.

DIY attempts can lead to higher costs if mistakes are made, such as contaminating the rest of your home or failing inspections. In most states, hiring a licensed contractor is required by law for asbestos abatement. 

Cost of Common Asbestos Tile Removal Add-Ons

Several add-ons may be necessary or beneficial during or after asbestos tile removal:

  • Encapsulation of remaining asbestos materials if full removal is not possible.

  • Installation of new flooring or subfloor after tiles are removed.

  • Proper disposal of hazardous waste materials, which is regulated and may involve extra fees.

  • Post-removal decontamination to ensure all asbestos fibers are gone.

  • Emergency or expedited removal services for urgent situations.

Each of these services adds to your overall project cost, but they can be crucial for safety and peace of mind.

Tips to Reduce Costs While Removing Asbestos Tile

Want to keep your asbestos tile removal cost manageable? Here are a few practical ways to save:

  • Get multiple quotes from certified local asbestos removal contractors to compare pricing and services.

  • Bundle asbestos tile removal with other home improvement projects for possible discounts.

  • Prepare the area ahead of time by moving furniture and clearing access paths.

  • Schedule removal during off-peak times, such as winter or mid-week, when contractors may offer lower rates.

  • Consider partial removal or encapsulation if full abatement is not required for your situation.

  • Maintain clear communication with your contractor to avoid unexpected scope changes and added fees.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.

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