One of the things to be on the lookout for is asbestos, particularly if you are about to launch into home improvements and your home was built or renovated before the mid 1980’s. Up to that time, it is likely that your home will have some building materials that contain asbestos.
It is dangerous when people renovate and start cutting, sanding, drilling, grinding or pulling down materials that contain asbestos. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure when fibres are exposed into the atmosphere.
Do I need a licence to remove asbestos?
A licence will be required for the removal of friable asbestos or greater than 10 square meters of bonded asbestos. Regardless of your project, you still do need to follow correct procedure to ensure the safe removal and disposal of asbestos.
Information regarding licensing may be found here.
Asbestos disposal
The area does have licensed sites that are able to accept bonded asbestos. Please contact Council for information on the closest licensed facility to dispose of any bonded asbestos.
For general information, relevant publications and answers to frequently asked questions regarding safe removal practices for asbestos refer to the following websites:
Asbestos Awareness
If you are thinking about renovating, you must be aware of asbestos. It is important for home owners and renovators to be aware of how to safely manage asbestos in and around the home.
www.asbestosawareness.com.au
WorkCover NSW
NSW Government
www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/diy
The Home Building Service (a division of the Office of Fair Trading)