Are you planning to renovate your charming older home? Before you swing a hammer or strip back that vintage bathroom wall, there’s a hidden danger you need to be aware of—asbestos in older homes. It’s not always visible, but it could be lurking in materials installed decades ago. And if disturbed, it can release toxic fibres that jeopardise your family's health.
If you're an Australian homeowner juggling family life and renovation plans, understanding asbestos risks isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Let’s walk through how to identify it, the health risks involved, legal obligations, and how to safely remove it with professional help.
Understanding Asbestos and Why It Matters
What exactly is asbestos, and why should you care?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once prized for its fire resistance, insulation, and durability. In Australia, it was widely used in residential construction from the 1940s to the late 1980s—especially in fibro homes and post-war buildings.
Where was it used?
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Roofing
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Wall sheeting
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Eaves and fences
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Vinyl floor tiles
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Bathroom walls and ceilings
Australia banned all forms of asbestos in 2003, but older homes still hide it behind plaster, paint, and linoleum. The problem arises when renovation disturbs these materials, releasing microscopic fibres into the air.
These fibres are invisible to the eye and, once inhaled, can lodge in the lungs for decades. That’s where the real risk lies.
Where Asbestos Lurks in Older Australian Homes
Think asbestos is only found in walls or ceilings? Think again.
Many Aussie homes built before the 1990s are potential minefields of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Some of the most common locations include:
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Eaves, soffits, and gable ends
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Bathroom and laundry walls
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Cement sheet ceilings
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Flooring adhesives
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Switchboard backing panels
It’s not always obvious. A flat, grey sheet behind your shower wall may look harmless but could contain bonded asbestos. Visual checks are never enough—safe asbestos identification requires professional testing.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Is it really that dangerous? Yes—here’s why.
Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause serious and often fatal health issues. Three major illnesses linked to exposure include:
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Mesothelioma – a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
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Asbestosis – a chronic lung disease that causes scarring of lung tissue.
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Lung cancer – increased risk even in non-smokers.
Symptoms often appear 20–30 years after exposure. And tragically, DIY renovation projects are a common source of exposure in Australian households. That’s why it’s critical to call in licensed asbestos contractors rather than attempting to remove it yourself.
Legal Requirements for Asbestos Removal in Australia
What are the rules around asbestos removal in your state?
Australia has strict regulations about how asbestos must be managed. Here’s what you need to know:
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In NSW, removal of more than 10 square metres requires a licensed contractor.
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Victoria and Queensland have similar thresholds and mandatory notification protocols.
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Disposal must follow council-approved routes and include certified waste tracking.
Licensed professionals must carry Class A or Class B licences, depending on the type of asbestos. Always ask to see their credentials before hiring.
How to Identify Asbestos Safely
Not sure if that sheeting is asbestos? Don’t guess—test.
Safe asbestos identification starts with hiring a professional asbestos assessor. Here’s how it works:
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Site Inspection: The assessor reviews materials and collects samples.
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Lab Testing: Samples are sent to a NATA-accredited lab.
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Report: You receive a report showing the presence (or absence) of ACMs.
This process is non-invasive and provides peace of mind. It’s also legally required in many renovation scenarios, especially if you're knocking down walls or ceilings.
Safe Asbestos Removal Process
So you’ve found asbestos. Now what? Here’s what to expect.
Asbestos removal Australia-wide must follow specific procedures to protect both occupants and workers. Here's how professionals handle it:
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Site Setup: Area is sealed with plastic sheeting; ventilation systems are shut down.
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Personal Protection: Workers wear full PPE, including respirators.
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Careful Removal: Materials are dampened to reduce dust and removed without breaking.
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Waste Disposal: ACMs are bagged, labelled, and transported to licensed facilities.
Expect some disruption—typically 1–3 days depending on the extent. But with qualified contractors, the job is fast, safe, and fully compliant.
Choosing a Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractor
How do you know who to trust? Start here.
Platforms like Maintainmyhouse list vetted professionals who specialise in asbestos removal Australia. Before hiring:
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Ask for their asbestos removal licence number.
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Request a detailed quote and removal plan.
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Ensure they’ll provide a Certificate of Clearance once the job is done.
This certificate confirms your home is safe and asbestos-free, giving you full peace of mind.
Budgeting for Asbestos Removal During Renovations
Worried about the cost? Let’s break it down.
On average, asbestos removal in Australia ranges between $30–$60 per square metre, depending on complexity. Here’s how to manage the budget:
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Get multiple quotes from licensed providers.
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Plan ahead—don’t wait until mid-renovation to test.
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Check for rebates—some states offer support for asbestos testing services or disposal.
Factoring in asbestos removal early prevents surprise costs and project delays.
Final Thoughts: Renovate Smarter, Renovate Safer
Asbestos in older homes isn’t something to take lightly. Early detection and expert help are your best defence against health risks and legal headaches.
By partnering with licensed asbestos contractors and budgeting wisely, you can confidently upgrade your space—knowing your family’s safety comes first.