Healthy living

Asbestos removal

Image of a house, zoomed in on the roof.
Asbestos removal is best carried out by licensed professionals to ensure it is done safely.
  • Use a licensed asbestos removalist for any removal work.
  • Asbestos is a cancer and lung disease hazard.
  • Never use power tools to drill, cut, sand or remove materials containing asbestos, as this will release asbestos fibres.
  • Never use a high pressure cleaner to clean asbestos cement roofing or cladding.
  • If you are looking to renovate, you must think asbestos.

Take care when undertaking any work on houses built prior to 1990, as it is likely to have a variety of building materials that contain asbestos.

Identifying and knowing that asbestos is present is important to make sure appropriate safety precautions can be taken to reduce your risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

Use a licensed asbestos removalist

If you intend to remove a large amount of material, or if in doubt as to its condition hire an experienced, licensed asbestos removalist (external site). You should receive a clearance certificate to confirm the full removal of asbestos containing materials.  Check the area where the asbestos has been removed to make sure it has been left in a clean state, with no dust or debris remaining.

It is strongly recommended that you hire a Class A licensed asbestos removal contractor (external site)when removing any amount of material that is severely damaged and/or is soft or able to be crumbled by hand.

Some products, such as the paper backing on linoleum flooring or textured ceiling coatings in older homes, may contain white asbestos. This backing material can have higher asbestos fibre content than asbestos cement products and the fibres can be more loosely bound and more dangerous.

Read the asbestos removal licensing – frequently asked questions (external site) for more information.

Information on the type of precautions used by licensed asbestos removalists is available in the Code of practice – How to safely remove asbestos | Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (external site).

Removing small amounts of intact asbestos

If you are considering removing a small amount of intact asbestos cement products or undertaking minor maintenance, or renovation on or around asbestos containing products, take the time to find out how to do this safely. Follow the advice from:

Approval to remove asbestos products from your property
Safely removing asbestos and protective gear
Where to dispose asbestos waste

More information


This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.

Questions? Ask your local government environmental health services