Asbestos was widely used in Australian buildings until it was banned at the end of 2003. In Sydney, homes and buildings from before 1990 are the most likely to contain it. If you are demolishing, renovating or stripping out, dealing with asbestos correctly is a legal requirement, not an optional extra.
Where asbestos is found in Sydney homes
- Fibro wall and eave linings.
- Bathroom and laundry wall sheeting, and behind tiles.
- Corrugated roofing and fencing.
- Vinyl floor tiles and the backing of sheet vinyl.
- Pipe lagging, hot water services and old heaters.
- Textured ceilings and some old adhesives.
Testing before demolition
Under the NSW work health and safety rules, asbestos in a structure must be identified before demolition or refurbishment of buildings constructed before 31 December 2003. In practice that means a hazardous materials survey by a competent person, with samples tested by an accredited laboratory where needed. The survey tells you what asbestos is present, where it is, and how much needs to be removed.
Friable and non-friable asbestos
Non-friable (bonded) asbestos, such as fibro sheeting, has fibres bound into another material. Friable asbestos can be crumbled by hand and releases fibres easily, such as old pipe lagging and some insulation. Friable asbestos must be removed by a Class A licensed removalist. Non-friable asbestos removal of more than 10 square metres requires a Class A or Class B licence.
Removal and clearance
Licensed removal includes sealing and wetting the material, removing it whole where possible, wrapping it, and decontaminating the work area. Once removal is complete, a clearance inspection is carried out and a clearance certificate issued before general demolition or other work continues in that area.
Disposal
Asbestos waste must be taken to a facility licensed to accept it. In NSW, larger quantities must also be tracked through the EPA's WasteLocate system. Dumping asbestos is illegal and carries heavy penalties.
How asbestos affects your project
- Time: survey, removal and clearance must happen before demolition.
- Cost: depends on the type, quantity and location of the asbestos.
- Neighbours: notifications and controls protect adjoining properties.
- Renovations: even small renovations can disturb asbestos in walls, floors and wet areas.
Demolition handled properly
We coordinate the survey, licensed removal, clearance and demolition as one managed job, under our Demolition Licence AD214430. See our demolition services or get in touch for a free site assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove asbestos myself in NSW?
Homeowners may legally remove a small amount of non-friable asbestos under strict conditions, but it is not recommended. Friable asbestos and non-friable asbestos over 10 square metres must be removed by a licensed removalist.
How do I know if my house has asbestos?
You cannot tell by looking. If your home was built before 1990 it is likely to contain some asbestos. A hazardous materials survey with laboratory testing confirms what is present and where.
What is an asbestos clearance certificate?
A clearance certificate confirms that an area where asbestos was removed has been inspected and is safe for other work to continue. It is issued after licensed removal is complete.
