What to Do If Your Perth Home Has Asbestos?
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- Shaun Leech
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Don’t Panic—Plan
So, your asbestos test came back positive. Take a deep breath—this isn’t a death sentence for your property. Thousands of older homes in suburbs like Fremantle, Subiaco, and Mount Lawley face similar challenges. The key is to act safely, legally, and strategically. This guide walks you through your next steps, from decoding lab results to budgeting for solutions—all tailored to WA’s regulations.
Step 1: Understand Your Lab Report
- Non-friable (bonded) asbestos:
- Mixed with cement or other materials (e.g., fibro sheets, vinyl tiles).
- Lower risk if intact.
- Example: “Your 1970s bathroom walls contain bonded chrysotile asbestos.”
- Friable asbestos:
- Crumbly, easily pulverized (e.g., pipe insulation, loose-fill attic insulation).
- High risk—requires immediate action.
- Example: “Damaged boiler insulation in the garage.”
Step 2: Decide: Remove, Monitor, or Encapsulate?
Option 1: Full Removal
Best for: High-risk friable asbestos, renovation plans, or severe damage.
WA Legal Rules:
Friable: Must be removed by a Class A licensed removalist.
Non-friable (>10m²): Requires a Class B licensed removalist.
Option 2: Monitoring/Encapsulation
Best for: Intact, low-risk materials (e.g., undamaged bathroom fibro).
Encapsulation: Sealing asbestos with paint or sealant (temporary fix).
Monitoring: Regular checks for damage.
“Once the wind starts wearing down the outer layers of the fibro [asbestos cement sheeting], well there’s definitely going to be asbestos dust blowing everywhere.”
– John Smith, Class A Asbestos Removalist, Queensland (2022)
Step 3: Talk to Neighbors (Especially in Terraces/Semis)
Shared walls, fences, or roofing? Here’s how to handle it:
Share the Report: Provide a copy of your asbestos findings.
Joint Removal: Split costs for shared structures (get a written agreement!).
Legal Duty: If your asbestos risks their property, you may be liable for damages.
Real-Life Example:
A Subiaco terrace owner faced fines after asbestos dust from their renovation contaminated a neighbor’s garden.
Step 4: Hire the Right Perth Professionals
Ask Before Hiring:
“Are you licensed with WorkSafe WA for this type of asbestos?”
“Can you provide a clearance certificate post-removal?”
“Where will you dispose of the waste?”
Step 5: Post-Removal Must-Dos
Clearance Certificate: Ensure your removalist provides this legal document.
Air Testing: Optional but wise for friable asbestos jobs.
Update Records: Keep reports for future buyers/insurers.
Conclusion: Turn Knowledge into Action
Finding asbestos in your Perth home isn’t the end—it’s the start of making your space safer. Whether you remove it now or plan for the future, always work with licenced pros.
Need Urgent Help?
Call WA’s Asbestos Hotline: 1300 539 004.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general advice. Always consult a licensed professional for your situation.
