If your home was built between 1940 and 1990, there is a strong likelihood that it contains asbestos in materials such as roofing, cladding, fences, bathrooms, and floor coverings. During this period, asbestos was widely used in Australian construction because it was considered durable and cost-effective. By the late 1980s, its serious health risks were undeniable. By 1990, asbestos was no longer used in new building products for Australian homes; however, some asbestos-containing materials remained in circulation until the nationwide ban took effect in 2003. This means that while houses built after 1990 are less likely to contain asbestos, there is still a possibility that asbestos could be found in homes built between 1990 and 2003.
In Brisbane, asbestos removal is regulated by legislation that protects both homeowners and the broader community. You need to understand these legal requirements if you suspect asbestos is present in your property. Safe removal protects your family’s health and ensures you meet your responsibilities. This article explains what you need to know as a homeowner in Brisbane about asbestos removal regulations, the role of licensed professionals, and how to ensure your property is managed safely and compliantly.
Why Asbestos Is a Concern for Brisbane Homeowners
Asbestos becomes a concern when it is disturbed or begins to break down, as it can release fine fibres that are invisible to the eye but dangerous when inhaled. Once in the lungs, these fibres can cause long-term damage and lead to serious illnesses such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
In Brisbane homes, building materials that remain in good condition may pose a low risk, but once they deteriorate, the danger increases. For example, cracked or crumbling asbestos floor tiles can release fibres that spread through the air when walked on or removed. Everyday tasks in areas where asbestos has started to break down can disturb the asbestos and make the environment unsafe.
Because asbestos cannot be identified by appearance alone, professional testing is essential. Licensed assessors can take samples, confirm whether asbestos is present, and advise on the safest way to manage or remove it. This approach reduces the risk of accidental exposure and helps you make informed decisions about your property.
Queensland Asbestos Removal Regulations Explained
In Queensland, asbestos removal is regulated by several pieces of legislation. The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, the Public Health Act 2005, and the Environmental Protection Act 1994 together establish how asbestos must be identified, managed, removed, and disposed of. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland enforces these requirements, while local councils oversee waste disposal and penalise illegal dumping.
As a homeowner, you can remove up to 10 square metres of bonded asbestos only. You must take safety precautions and ensure all waste is sealed, labelled, and taken to an approved facility. Placing asbestos in household rubbish or disposing of it improperly is illegal.
Safezone holds a Class B asbestos removal licence, which allows the team to safely remove bonded asbestos of any size. All work is carried out in line with the Code of Practice: How to Safely Remove Asbestos and the Code of Practice: How to Manage and Control Asbestos in the Workplace.
Penalties apply for non-compliance, including fines for individuals and higher penalties for businesses. These penalties reflect the serious health risks posed by asbestos exposure.
The Safe Asbestos Removal Process
Engaging the team at Safezone ensures asbestos is handled in a controlled and safe manner.
Inspection and testing take place first. A qualified assessor inspects the property, collects samples where needed, and confirms whether asbestos is present. This step provides clear information about the location and condition of the material.
Once asbestos is identified, preparation and containment begin. The removal area is sealed off to prevent fibres from escaping, warning signs are installed, and protective equipment is used. This creates a controlled environment where removal can take place safely.
The removalist then applies approved safe removal methods and techniques that minimise dust and fibre release, with materials kept intact wherever possible.
Following removal, all asbestos waste is transported and disposed of at an approved facility. Waste is sealed, labelled, and tracked to ensure it is handled in compliance with disposal regulations.
The final stage is a clearance inspection and certification. An independent assessor inspects the site, confirms that it is free from asbestos contamination, and issues documentation to show the property is safe to reoccupy.
Costs of Asbestos Removal in Brisbane
The cost of asbestos removal varies because no two properties are the same. Several factors influence the final price, including the size of the area, the type of asbestos, the ease of access to the site, and the disposal fees charged at approved facilities. Each of these elements affects the amount of time, equipment, and planning required to complete the job safely.
Costs also vary depending on the location of the asbestos. Removing asbestos roofing often requires more equipment and safety controls than removing internal wall cladding. Fencing can involve large amounts of material that need to be transported and disposed of, while interior asbestos in kitchens or bathrooms may require extra containment and careful removal to protect surrounding areas.
Safezone provides a free asbestos removal cost calculator. This tool helps you understand the general cost of asbestos removal in Brisbane. However, a personalised quote for your property offers greater accuracy because it accounts for factors you may not have considered, such as site access, condition of the materials, and the volume of waste. Requesting a detailed quote ensures you have clear information about both costs and the scope of work that will be required.
Peace of Mind for Homeowners in Brisbane
Managing asbestos in your home can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, asbestos can be identified, removed, and disposed of in a way that protects your family and the wider community. Safezone is based in Cleveland and provides homeowners across Brisbane and surrounding areas with local knowledge and responsive service.
By choosing a licensed removalist, you remove the uncertainty that comes with trying to handle asbestos yourself. Professional removal prevents the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, avoids the legal and financial consequences of unsafe disposal, and provides you with confidence that your home has been made safe.
If you suspect asbestos is present in your property contact Safezone today for an obligation-free quote and gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home and family are protected.
