Your guide to Central Coast Asbestos Removal
Asbestos is still found in many older buildings across the Central Coast. Knowing how to handle it safely will help you to avoid serious risks to your health.
In this article, find out what asbestos is, where it is commonly found, the health risks it poses, and the standard process for asbestos removal Central Coast.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Still a Problem in NSW?
Asbestos was widely used in Australian building products throughout most of the 20th century, and the material remains in place in many properties across NSW.
Many Central Coast properties have never had their asbestos assessed or removed.
Where Was Asbestos Commonly Used in Buildings?
Asbestos was used across a wide range of building products, including:
- Fibro (fibre cement) wall and ceiling sheeting
- Roof sheeting, guttering and eaves
- Floor tiles
- Pipe lagging, insulation, and hot water system surrounds
- Fence panels
What Are the Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure?
When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibres may become airborne. These fibres can be inhaled without any immediate sensation and lodge permanently in the lungs.
There is no safe level of asbestos exposure, according to Safe Work Australia.
What Diseases Does Asbestos Cause?
The three primary diseases linked to asbestos exposure are:
- Mesothelioma: A cancer in the lung or abdomen. It has no cure.
- Asbestosis: A disease caused by scarring of tissue from inhaled fibres.
- Lung cancer: Particularly in smokers exposed to asbestos.
These diseases can take 20 to 40 years to develop after initial exposure, so the consequences of exposure today may not appear for decades.
When Is Asbestos Considered Dangerous?
Not all asbestos poses an immediate risk. The level of danger depends on its condition and how it is being handled.
What Is the Difference Between Bonded and Friable Asbestos?
Understanding the differences is important because each type carries different risks and requires different licences for removal.
What Is Bonded Asbestos?
Bonded asbestos (or non-friable asbestos) is asbestos which is bound within a solid matrix, such as cement. It does not readily release fibres unless it is broken, cut, sanded, or weathered over time.
Common examples include:
- Fibro sheeting (walls, ceilings, eaves)
- Roof sheeting and floor tiles
- Asbestos cement fencing
Removal of bonded asbestos in NSW requires a Class B asbestos removal licence issued by SafeWork NSW.
What Is Friable Asbestos?
Friable asbestos can easily be crumbled into powder by hand pressure alone. It releases fibres far more easily and is considered the more dangerous of the two types.
Common locations include:
- Pipe and duct insulation
- Sprayed-on fireproofing and acoustic coatings
- Loose-fill insulation (known as “Mr Fluffy” insulation in some areas)
- Old boiler and furnace insulation
Removal of friable asbestos in NSW requires a Class A asbestos removal licence. Only fully licensed and trained professionals are legally permitted to handle this material.
Important: If you are unsure which type of asbestos you have, assume it is friable until a licensed assessor tells you otherwise.
What Does the Asbestos Removal Process Involve?
Professional asbestos removal in NSW follows a well-established process.
Step-by-Step: How Asbestos Is Removed Safely
- An inspection of the property takes place.
- A removal plan includes safety controls and disposal methods.
- The work area is sealed off with plastic sheets and warning signs to prevent fibres from spreading.
- Wetting techniques are used during removal to suppress dust.
- Sealed asbestos waste is labelled and taken to an approved disposal facility.
- The site is inspected to confirm successful completion of the process, and a clearance certificate is issued.
- All removal work is documented in compliance with SafeWork NSW requirements.
How Do I Know the Contractor Is Licensed?
You can check the SafeWork NSW register online at safework.nsw.gov.au to confirm a contractor holds a valid asbestos removal licence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos Removal on the Central Coast
How do I know if my home contains asbestos?
If your home was built or renovated before 1987, it may contain asbestos. A visual inspection alone is not enough to confirm its presence. Only laboratory testing of a sample can provide certainty. A licensed asbestos assessor can inspect your property and arrange testing if required.
Can I remove asbestos myself in NSW?
Under NSW law, a homeowner may remove up to 10 square metres of bonded (non-friable) asbestos themselves. However, strict safety procedures must be followed, including the use of appropriate PPE and correct disposal at an approved facility. Professional removal is strongly recommended regardless of the quantity, to protect your health and avoid legal liability.
Is friable asbestos removal a DIY job?
No. Friable asbestos must only be removed by a contractor holding a Class A asbestos removal licence in NSW. There are no exceptions to this rule for homeowners.
How much does asbestos removal cost on the Central Coast?
Costs depend on the type of asbestos (bonded or friable), the quantity, accessibility, and the scope of work. A site inspection is needed before an accurate quote can be provided. Friable asbestos removal is generally more expensive due to the additional safety controls required.
Is asbestos removal covered by home insurance?
This varies between insurers and policies. Some policies cover removal costs when asbestos is disturbed as a result of an insured event, such as a fire or storm.
What happens to asbestos waste after removal?
Asbestos waste is double-wrapped in heavy-duty polyethene bags, clearly labelled, and transported by a licensed contractor to an approved waste facility licensed to accept asbestos. Illegal dumping of asbestos waste carries significant financial penalties under NSW law.
Do I need a clearance certificate after asbestos removal?
A clearance certificate is required for all friable asbestos removal work and is strongly recommended for bonded asbestos removal as well. It confirms the site is safe and provides important documentation for property records, future sales, or insurance purposes.
Get Licensed Asbestos Removal on the Central Coast
Around The House Asbestos Removal is a locally owned and operated business serving homeowners, business owners, and construction teams across the Central Coast. We are licensed for asbestos removal in NSW, and all work is carried out to SafeWork NSW standards.
Our process is straightforward: inspection, removal, clearance, and documentation. No surprises, no hidden costs.
Contact Around The House Asbestos Removal for an obligation-free site assessment and quote. Visit
aroundthehouseasbestosremoval.com.au/asbestos-removal to get started.
