Asbestos & Mould FAQ Sydney | Hazmat Detection & Removal

Question 1

What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that was widely used in Australian building materials from the 1940s through to the mid-1980s. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibres can become airborne and, if inhaled, may cause serious lung diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Undisturbed asbestos in good condition generally poses a low risk, the danger arises when it is cut, drilled, sanded, or otherwise damaged.

Question 2

Which homes are most likely to contain asbestos?

Accepted Answer

Homes built or renovated before 1990 are most likely to contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Fibro (fibre cement) homes built before 1987 are particularly common in NSW. Asbestos was used in roofing, eaves, wall sheeting, floor tiles, pipe lagging, textured ceilings, and many other building products. If your home was built before 1990, assume asbestos may be present until a professional inspection confirms otherwise.

Question 3

Can I identify asbestos by looking at it?

Accepted Answer

No. Asbestos cannot be reliably identified by sight alone. Many materials that look similar to asbestos-containing products do not contain asbestos, and vice versa. The only way to confirm whether a material contains asbestos is through laboratory testing of a sample collected by a qualified professional.

Question 4

Does asbestos always need to be removed?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition and are not being disturbed can often be left in place and managed. Removal is typically required when materials are damaged, deteriorating, or will be disturbed by planned renovation or demolition work. An inspection will help determine the most appropriate course of action for your property.

Question 5

Can I remove asbestos myself?

Accepted Answer

In NSW, homeowners may remove up to 10 square metres of non-friable (bonded) asbestos themselves, provided they follow SafeWork NSW guidelines. However, this is not recommended, improper removal can expose you and your family to dangerous fibres. Any amount of friable (loose or crumbly) asbestos must be removed by a licensed contractor. We strongly recommend using a licensed professional for all asbestos removal work.

Question 6

How much does an asbestos inspection cost?

Accepted Answer

Asbestos inspection pricing depends on the size and type of property and the scope of the inspection. We provide free, no-obligation quotes, call us on 61480872114 or submit an enquiry online and we'll get back to you promptly.

Question 7

How much does asbestos sampling cost?

Accepted Answer

Sampling starts from $190 + GST for the first sample, with additional samples from $110 + GST each. The sample is sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis and you'll receive a clear written report with the results and recommended next steps.

Question 8

How long does asbestos removal take?

Accepted Answer

The duration depends on the scope of work, the type of material, its location, and the quantity involved. A small residential job such as eaves or a shed roof may be completed in a day. Larger commercial or industrial projects may take several days. We'll give you a clear timeframe when we quote.

Question 9

Can we stay in the house during asbestos removal?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the material, its location, and the scope of work. For some jobs, occupants can remain in unaffected parts of the property with appropriate controls in place. For others, temporary relocation may be required. We'll advise you on the appropriate approach after assessing the site.

Question 10

What is a clearance certificate and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A clearance certificate (also called a clearance inspection report) is issued by an independent licensed asbestos assessor after removal work is complete. It confirms that the area has been cleared of asbestos waste and is safe to re-occupy or continue work. Clearance certificates are required by law for licensed asbestos removal work in NSW and are strongly recommended for all removal projects.

Question 11

What does a Class B asbestos removal licence cover?

Accepted Answer

A Class B licence issued by SafeWork NSW authorises the removal of non-friable (bonded) asbestos-containing materials, such as fibro sheeting, asbestos cement roofing, eaves, and floor tiles. Hazmat Detection & Removal holds a Class B licence (Licence No: AD213491). Friable (loose or crumbly) asbestos requires a Class A licence, we refer friable work to a licensed Class A contractor.

Question 12

Does asbestos removal need to be notified to SafeWork NSW?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Licensed asbestos removal work must be notified to SafeWork NSW at least five days before work commences. We handle all required notifications as part of our service.

Question 13

Is mould in my home dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Mould can cause a range of health effects, particularly for people with respiratory conditions, allergies, or compromised immune systems. Symptoms can include coughing, sneezing, eye irritation, and skin reactions. Extensive mould growth should be assessed and remediated by a professional.

Question 14

Will mould come back after remediation?

Accepted Answer

Mould can return if the underlying moisture source is not identified and addressed. Our inspection process includes identifying visible moisture indicators and contributing conditions. Addressing the moisture source, whether it's a leak, condensation, or poor ventilation, is essential to preventing recurrence.

Question 15

Do you fix the moisture problem as well?

Accepted Answer

We can identify visible moisture concerns and advise on next steps. Structural repairs such as plumbing fixes or waterproofing may require a relevant trade specialist. We'll point you in the right direction.

Question 16

Which areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

We service Sydney and surrounding NSW regions including the Macarthur Region, Southern Highlands, Illawarra, Liverpool, Cumberland, Penrith, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, and Goulburn. If you're unsure whether we cover your area, call us on 61480872114 or send an enquiry.

Question 17

How quickly can you attend?

Accepted Answer

We aim to respond to all enquiries within one business day and can often schedule inspections within a few days. For urgent situations, call us directly on 61480872114 and we'll do our best to accommodate you.

Question 18

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept Square (card payments), bank transfer, and cash.

Frequently asked questions

Asbestos, general

Asbestos inspection & removal

Mould inspection & remediation

Service areas & availability

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