If you are wondering how to remove asbestos in NSW, you are not alone. Homeowners, property managers, and business owners often ask the same question when renovating or demolishing older properties.
This guide walks you through the asbestos removal process NSW, including the legal requirements, safety steps and when you must hire a licensed professional.
Read on to understand the best process for friable and non-friable asbestos removal.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Asbestos Removal in NSW?

Asbestos removal in NSW is strictly regulated under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017. These laws exist to protect workers, residents, and the environment from dangerous asbestos fibres.

When Do You Need a Licensed Asbestos Removalist Wollongong?

You must hire a licensed asbestos removalist in the following situations:

  • Any amount of friable asbestos (material that crumbles easily when dry)
  • Non-friable asbestos (bonded material like fibro cement sheets) over an area covering more than 10 square metres
  • Work being carried out as part of a business or commercial project

The 10 square metre rule applies only to non-friable asbestos on your own residential property. You cannot divide a large area into smaller sections to avoid licensing requirements. SafeWork NSW strongly recommends using a licensed professional for any asbestos removal, regardless of quantity.

Improper removal puts your family, neighbours, and workers at serious health risk. Asbestos fibres can remain airborne for hours and travel long distances.

How to Identify Asbestos Before Removal

A professional inspection must be carried out before any removal work. Asbestos was commonly used in Australian homes and buildings until 2003. Properties built or renovated before this date are likely to contain asbestos materials.

Common Locations of Asbestos in NSW Homes

Asbestos may be found in these areas of older properties:

  • Roofing and eaves
  • External and internal walls (fibro cement sheeting)
  • Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens
  • Floors
  • Fences, sheds, and garages
  • Pipe insulation and lagging
  • Textured ceilings and paint

If in doubt, always assume asbestos is present until tested by a professional.

Should You Test for Asbestos Before Removal?

Yes, testing will confirm the type and location of asbestos in your building. A licensed asbestos assessor can:

  • Take samples from suspect materials
  • Send them to a NATA-accredited laboratory for analysis
  • Deliver a report confirming the type of asbestos

What Is the Step-by-Step Asbestos Removal Process in NSW?

Professional asbestos removal follows a strict, regulated process to ensure safety and compliance. Here is what happens from start to finish.

Site Inspection

A licensed assessor inspects the property and identifies all asbestos-containing materials.

The assessment report includes:

  • Locations of asbestos
  • Type of asbestos (friable or non-friable)
  • Condition of materials
  • Recommended removal method

Planning and Notification

Before work begins, the removalist prepares:

  • An asbestos removal control plan
  • A safe work method statement (SWMS)
  • Notification to SafeWork NSW (at least 5 calendar days before starting, unless emergency work)

Site Preparation and Containment

The work area is isolated to prevent fibre spread:

  • Exclusion zones are established with barriers and warning signs
  • Negative air pressure units are installed for friable asbestos
  • Decontamination facilities are set up (dry units for non-friable, wet units with showers for friable)
  • All penetrations are sealed with plastic sheeting and tape

Safe Removal Techniques

Materials are removed using controlled methods:

  • Any suspected asbestos materials are kept wet during removal to suppress dust
  • Materials are removed whole where possible, not broken or cut
  • No power tools, sanding, or high-pressure water should be used
  • Removed materials are placed directly into sealed, labelled asbestos waste bags

Decontamination and Cleaning

The entire area is cleaned:

  • HEPA-filtered vacuum equipment removes fine fibres
  • All surfaces are wet-wiped
  • Tools and equipment are decontaminated or disposed of
  • Workers shower and change before leaving the containment zone

Waste Disposal Requirements

Asbestos waste must be disposed of correctly:

  • Waste is double-wrapped in 200-micron plastic
  • Packages are clearly labelled as asbestos waste
  • All waste must be taken to licensed disposal facilities
  • Waste dockets are issued to confirm safe disposal

Clearance and Certification

Before the area may be reoccupied:

  • A licensed asbestos assessor must carry out a clearance inspection
  • Air monitoring is performed (mandatory for friable asbestos)
  • A clearance certificate is issued if the area meets safety standards
  • No one can re-enter the work area until clearance is granted

Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself in NSW?

Homeowners sometimes consider DIY removal to save money. However, strict rules apply, and the risks often outweigh any cost savings.

DIY Asbestos Removal Rules and Restrictions

You may remove asbestos yourself only if:

  • The material is non-friable (bonded)
  • The total area is less than 10 square metres
  • It is on your own residential property (not rental or commercial)
  • You follow SafeWork NSW Code of Practice guidelines

You must:

  • Wet the material to prevent dust
  • Avoid breaking or cutting it
  • Double-wrap waste in 200-micron plastic
  • Label it clearly as asbestos waste
  • Dispose of it at a licensed facility

Risks of DIY Asbestos Removal

DIY removal carries health and legal risks:

  • You face exposure to asbestos fibres unless you have proper PPE
  • Contamination of your home, garden, and neighbouring properties poses health risks to your family and the local community
  • Improper disposal can lead to fines

SafeWork NSW recommends using a licensed professional for any asbestos removal, even for small amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Asbestos Removal in NSW

Do I need a licence to remove asbestos in NSW?

Yes, you need a Class A licence for any friable asbestos or a Class B licence for non-friable asbestos covering more than 10 square metres.

How much asbestos can a homeowner remove without a licence?

Homeowners may only remove up to 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos from their own property without a licence, following SafeWork NSW guidelines.

What is the difference between the types of asbestos?

Friable asbestos crumbles easily and releases fibres into the air. Non-friable asbestos has fibres bonded in a matrix like cement and is less likely to release fibres unless damaged.

How long does asbestos removal take?

Small residential jobs typically take one to two days. Larger projects or whole-house removal can take several days to weeks depending on scope.

Do I need a clearance certificate after asbestos removal?

Yes, an independent licensed assessor must issue a clearance certificate before the area can be reoccupied, especially for friable asbestos removal.

Why Choose a Professional Asbestos Removal Process NSW?

A licensed asbestos removalist Wollongong has the training, equipment, and experience to handle asbestos correctly. They follow strict protocols to protect your property and community.

Wollongong Asbestos Removal are a well-regarded, locally owned and operated asbestos removal business serving Wollongong and the surrounding suburbs. Our local team understands the challenges faced when working at properties in this region and knows how to remove asbestos NSW safely and efficiently.

If you need help with friable or non-friable asbestos removal, contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote. We are ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process.