Finding asbestos can be a distressing experience when you renovate or buy given its well-documented history as a toxic material.
Asbestos is a natural substance of thin fibrous crystals that if inhaled attacks the lungs, causing them to stiffen with deadly consequences.
You might find asbestos in any pre-1990 home, as the material was used in many areas, predominantly for walls, ceilings, eaves, gutters, downpipes and gutters.
If you’re planning a renovation and believe asbestos might be present, take every precaution.
Engage a specialist company to test any material you suspect may contain asbestor. The cost is around $200 and will take just a few days to be completed.
As local agents, we have heard stories of renovations where asbestos offcuts are found under the floor from previous renovations or found when a wall is knocked down. In this scenario, calling in a specialist remover is the wisest course of action.
Here are some of the actions you should expect them to take in removing the asbestos.
Indoors
- The affected area should be isolated from the rest of the home. All internal doors should be sealed.
- The floor, and especially carpet, should be covered in heavy-duty plastic sheeting to catch dust, debris and offcuts.
- Keep people and pets away from the affected area. It’s best to leave your home while the work is conducted.
- Don’t use fans or air-conditioning during the work
Outdoors
- Outdoor work most commonly occurs when old garages are removed, or external fixtures are updated.
- Again, household members should leave the premises. Pets should go, too.
- Neighbours should be informed asbestos is to be removed. Your contractor will ask them to close doors and windows when the work is being carried out.
- All your windows, doors and vents should be shut to prevent dust from coming into the building.
- Any garden area at risk of contamination should be covered in heavy-duty plastic, especially if you grow fruit and vegetables.
- All children’s toys, garden furniture and any vehicles should be taken from the immediate area.