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News & Insights

Guidance for Asbestos in DIY and Professional Renovations

Thursday, July 24, 2025

Introduction

Asbestos remains a significant health and legal risk in Australian homes and buildings built before the 1990s. Whether you’re a DIY renovator or a licensed professional, understanding your obligations and options is critical. This article answers five commonly asked questions about handling asbestos during renovation projects.

If you’re interested in learning more about Asbestos Management, visit our dedicated page here.

How Do I Know If My Home Contains Asbestos?

Homes built before 1990 in Australia are highly likely to contain asbestos materials — especially in roofing, eaves, fences, bathrooms, and under vinyl flooring. Asbestos can’t always be identified by sight alone. A licensed asbestos assessor or environmental consultant should take a sample for laboratory analysis to confirm its presence before any renovation begins.

What Are the Risks of Disturbing Asbestos While Renovating?

Disturbing asbestos releases harmful fibres into the air, which can be inhaled and lead to serious health conditions like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Power tools, sanding, drilling, or even removing tiles can release fibres if asbestos is present. The risk is especially high when materials are damaged or friable (easily crumbled).

What Are My Legal Obligations When Renovating a Home With Asbestos?

DIY renovators are legally prohibited from removing friable asbestos or amounts exceeding 10m² of bonded asbestos. Anything beyond this requires a licensed asbestos removalist. Professional builders must follow the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 (NSW) and notify SafeWork NSW for certain removal works. All waste must be disposed of at a licensed asbestos facility.

What Safety Measures Should Be Taken During Removal or Renovation?

If asbestos is confirmed or suspected:

  • Do not cut, drill, or sand the material.
  • Use PPE including P2 masks and disposable coveralls.
  • Wet down the area to minimise dust release.
  • Contain and seal the workspace with plastic sheeting.
  • Dispose of materials in clearly labelled, double-bagged waste.

Professionals should also use negative pressure enclosures and air monitoring to ensure site safety.

When Should I Hire a Licensed Asbestos Professional?

Always engage a licensed asbestos professional when:

  • The asbestos is friable or in poor condition
  • The total removal area exceeds 10m²
  • You’re unsure about the material’s type or condition
  • The project is commercial, industrial, or part of a demolition

Licensed professionals ensure compliance, safe removal, and proper waste disposal — protecting both occupants and workers from long-term health risks.

Conclusion

Whether you're updating a single bathroom or renovating an entire home, asbestos needs to be treated with caution. Raw Earth Environmental offers professional asbestos assessments and licensed removal coordination across NSW. 

Book a consultation today to protect your health, stay compliant, and renovate with confidence.