Asbestos ceilings in Sydney homes
Ceilings in pre-1990 homes can hide asbestos sheeting, boards or insulation.
Which ceilings contain asbestos?
asbestos.nsw.gov.au lists asbestos cement sheeting, low-density fibre boards and loose-fill insulation in ceilings and ceiling spaces (asbestos.nsw.gov.au). Low-density boards are soft enough to mark with a fingernail and are often painted white.
Is low-density board more dangerous?
Low-density asbestos boards are softer than cement sheet and more likely to release fibres when damaged. Treat them as potentially friable and get them assessed before work.
What if there's loose fluffy insulation in the roof?
Don't touch it. Loose-fill asbestos is friable. Check the NSW register (NSW Government) and call SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.
Can I put downlights or a fan in?
Cutting holes in an untested ceiling is a common way to disturb asbestos. Test first.