How Can I Get Rid of Asbestos from My House?

If you’re asking, “How can I get rid of asbestos from my house?”, you’re not alone. Many homeowners with older NSW homes face this question when renovating, selling, or simply making their property safer.

In this article, we explain how to carry out asbestos removal legally and safely, protect your family, and how to dispose of asbestos NSW.

What is asbestos and why must it be removed?

Asbestos consists of fibrous minerals and was widely used in Australian homes for its strength and heat resistance. It was commonly installed in roofs, walls, eaves, flooring, and fencing until bans took full effect in 2003.

Asbestos fibres can become airborne when the material is disturbed and may cause serious diseases including asbestosis and lung cancer when inhaled.

Removing asbestos materials from your home eliminates your risk of exposure during renovations, demolitions, or natural wear and tear.

Can I remove asbestos myself in NSW?

Some DIY removal is permitted under strict conditions, but safety and compliance are critical.

• You can remove up to 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos without a licence if it’s your own home.
• Friable asbestos crumbles easily and must be handled only by a Class A licensed removalist.

What is non-friable vs friable asbestos?

Understanding the type of asbestos present will help you decide whether you can DIY or must hire a pro.

• Non-friable asbestos fibres are tightly bound in cement or resin and remain lower risk if undisturbed, but fibres can become dangerous if disturbed.
• Friable asbestos is the most dangerous. It crumbles easily under hand pressure when dry.

What are the legal steps to get rid of asbestos from my house?

Follow this sequence to stay safe and ensure compliance with NSW regulations.

1. Site inspection.
   • A professional contractor, wearing PPE, will conduct a site inspection and collect samples to send to a NATA-accredited lab for testing.
2. Receive your test results.
   • Non-friable asbestos in an area less than 10 m² may be DIY (with precautions to avoid serious health risks).
   • Anything friable or over 10 m² requires a licensed removalist.
3. Plan the removal.
   • Put up signs around affected areas and restrict access. Anybody entering the area must have PPE, including a respirator, coveralls, gloves, and eye protection.
4. Remove safely.
   • Use wetting methods to help prevent dust spread.
5. Material Management
   • Secure and label waste material.
6. Take for disposal.
   • Only ever take asbestos waste to an EPA-licensed landfill that accepts asbestos. Keep the disposal receipts for your records.

What safety precautions must I follow during removal?

Honestly, getting rid of asbestos yourself is NOT recommended, for the sake of your own and your family’s health.

• Always wear full PPE, including a respirator, disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection.
• Using water with a little dish soap can help suppress fibres.
• Avoid power tools: Never use grinders, saws, or high-pressure water.
• Seal doors and vents to the affected area; keep children and pets away and, ideally, out of the house altogether.

Where can I legally dispose of asbestos waste in NSW?

Take asbestos to a licensed disposal facility. Rules differ by local authority and facility.

• Sydney Metropolitan examples:
  • Kimbriki (Terrey Hills), Lucas Heights, and some Cleanaway or Bingo sites.
• Regional NSW:
  • Contact your local council.
• Packaging:
  • Secure and label suspected asbestos material.

Frequently Asked Questions: Getting rid of asbestos from my house

Can the homeowner remove asbestos in NSW?

Yes, up to 10 square metres of non-friable material may be removed by the homeowner from their own home. Friable asbestos or larger areas require a licensed professional.

What happens if I dump asbestos illegally?

Heavy fines apply to those caught illegally dumping asbestos and endangering the community and environment. Always use licensed disposal facilities and keep disposal receipts.

How long does asbestos removal take?

Every job is unique, but generally a small job can be done in half a day. Whole-house or friable removals may take 1–4 days depending on scope.

Is asbestos removal tax-deductible?

Often yes for investment properties or business premises. Consult your accountant for personal residences.

Rapid Demolition for Safe, compliant, and stress-free removal

When you need to remove asbestos from your house, choose experienced, professional, and safe contractors.

At Rapid Demolition, we are a locally owned team with years of local asbestos removal experience. We work safely and efficiently, and we know how to dispose of asbestos NSW safely and legally.

Contact us today to discuss your project and arrange for a free, no-obligation quote and a removal plan you can trust.