What to Do If Your Home Has Asbestos?

Asbestos is one of the most silent and serious hazardous materials that was commonly used in Australian homes built before the 1990s. When disturbed, its fibres can become airborne, posing serious health threats such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Its presence may not be visible, but the risk is very real. Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane is committed to helping homeowners address this issue with precision and care.

Key Takeaways

• Asbestos exposure can cause life-threatening diseases.
• Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself.
• Professional inspection is the safest first step.
• Licensed removal is legally required in most cases.
• Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane ensures full compliance and safety.

Discovering that your home may contain asbestos can be alarming, especially given the health risks associated with this hazardous material. Asbestos, once widely used in building materials for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, is now known to cause serious illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. If you suspect or confirm the presence of asbestos in your home, it’s important to know how to respond safely and responsibly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if your home has asbestos.

1. Don’t Panic — Assess the Situation Calmly

The presence of asbestos in your home does not necessarily pose an immediate danger. Asbestos is most dangerous when it is disturbed and becomes airborne, allowing the fibres to be inhaled. If the materials containing asbestos are in good condition and left undisturbed, they are generally not a health hazard.

For example, asbestos might be found in floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing materials, pipe insulation, and textured wall coatings. If these materials are intact and undamaged, it’s best not to touch or disturb them until you’ve had a proper assessment.

2. Stop Any Renovations or Repairs

If you’re planning renovations or if you’re in the middle of a project, stop immediately if you suspect asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). This is especially important when dealing with asbestos in older homes, where materials like insulation, floor tiles, or wall sheeting may contain hidden risks. Drilling, cutting, sanding, or demolishing materials with asbestos can release microscopic fibres into the air. Exposure to these fibres can have serious long-term health consequences.

Avoid attempting to remove or tamper with suspected materials yourself. Even well-intentioned DIY efforts can make the situation worse.

3. Confirm the Presence of Asbestos

The next step is to confirm whether asbestos is present. This must be done by a certified professional. An asbestos inspector can take small samples from suspect materials and have them analysed in a laboratory.

Testing should only be performed by trained personnel using proper safety precautions. Do not attempt to collect samples yourself, as this can release asbestos fibres into your home.

4. Hire a Licensed Asbestos Professional

DIY asbestos removal is not only dangerous but illegal in many cases. According to Queensland Health, a Class A or B license is mandatory for removal above certain volumes. If the presence of asbestos is confirmed, you’ll need to consult a licensed asbestos abatement service contractor. Depending on the type and condition of the material, the professional will recommend one of three approaches:

• Leave It Alone: If the asbestos-containing material is undamaged and unlikely to be disturbed, it may be safest to leave it in place and monitor it regularly.
• Encapsulation: This involves sealing the asbestos-containing material with a special coating that prevents fibres from becoming airborne.
• Removal: If the asbestos poses a significant risk, for example, if it’s damaged or in a high-traffic area, professional removal may be necessary.

Choosing a professional provider ensures:

• Worker protection using the correct personal protective equipment
• Dust containment and negative pressure systems
• Compliant transport and disposal of waste
• Thorough documentation and clearance reports

At Total Asbestos, we are fully licensed and insured for both residential and commercial asbestos removal.

5. Follow Legal and Safety Guidelines

Asbestos abatement is regulated by government authorities in many countries. These regulations ensure that removal and disposal are done safely to protect workers, homeowners, and the environment.

Before starting work, ensure the contractor is licensed and adheres to local and federal asbestos regulations. They should provide documentation outlining the scope of work, safety procedures, and disposal plans.

6. Prepare for the Abatement Process

If removal or encapsulation is necessary, prepare your home for the process. This often includes:

• Sealing off the work area to prevent contamination.
• Temporarily vacating the home or isolating affected rooms.
• Removing or protecting furniture and belongings.
• Ensuring proper ventilation and air filtration systems are in place.

The contractor will use specialised equipment such as vacuums and protective gear to handle the materials safely.

7. Proper Disposal of Asbestos Waste

Asbestos waste must be disposed of in approved facilities. It cannot be thrown away with regular household trash. The contractor will transport the material in sealed, labelled containers to designated hazardous waste sites.

Ensure you receive a waste consignment note or similar documentation as proof that the asbestos was disposed of legally and responsibly.

8. Post-Abatement Clearance and Air Testing

After removal or encapsulation, a clearance inspection should be conducted to ensure the area is safe for reoccupation. This typically includes:

• Visual inspections to confirm no debris remains.
• Air testing to check for the presence of asbestos fibres.
• Certification that the space meets safety standards.

Do not re-enter the treated area until the clearance process is completed and approved.

9. Prevent Future Exposure

Once the asbestos issue is resolved, maintain records of the inspection and abatement for future reference. If you plan to sell or renovate your home, disclose this information to potential buyers or contractors to avoid future exposure risks.

It’s also wise to be vigilant when planning future repairs or remodelling, particularly in older homes where asbestos was commonly used in building materials.

Conclusion

Asbestos in your home is not something to ignore or handle on your own. Acting responsibly can safeguard your health, your family’s well-being, and your property’s value. Contact Total Asbestos Removal Brisbane today for safe, certified, and cost-effective solutions.

FAQs:

What steps should I take if I unintentionally disturb asbestos?

Leave the area immediately and avoid spreading dust. Contact a licensed asbestos removalist right away.

Can I legally remove asbestos myself in Queensland?

Only if the amount is under 10m² and you follow strict safety protocols. For anything larger, a licensed professional is required.

How much does asbestos removal cost in Brisbane?

Costs depend on the quantity and classification of the asbestos material. For a quote, contact us via our contact page.

Is asbestos dangerous if it’s not damaged?

If undisturbed and in good condition, it may be low-risk. However, it should still be monitored regularly.

How long does asbestos removal take?

Typical residential jobs take 1–3 days, depending on site size, access, and material condition.

Do you provide asbestos clearance certificates?

Yes, we issue clearance certificates and air quality reports upon completion of removal projects.