Asbestos testing before you renovate (NSW)

If your home was built before 1990, test before you cut, drill or demolish.

Should I test for asbestos before renovating?

Yes, if the house was built or renovated before 1990. The NSW EPA says homes built before 1990 probably contain asbestos (NSW EPA). Drilling, cutting or sanding unknown sheeting is how most homeowner exposures happen.

Who can take the samples?

A licensed asbestos assessor or an occupational hygienist can inspect and take samples (asbestos.nsw.gov.au). Samples go to a NATA-accredited lab, which costs about $40–$140 per sample at the lab (source). Assessors are licensed by SafeWork NSW (SafeWork NSW).

What areas should be checked?

The rooms you're renovating, plus anything the work will disturb: wet-area walls and floors, vinyl and its backing, eaves, ceilings and ceiling spaces, and the roof (source).

What about loose-fill asbestos?

Loose-fill asbestos insulation was installed in some NSW roof spaces. Check the NSW Government's public Loose-Fill Asbestos Insulation Register before you buy or renovate (NSW Government register).