Buying a pre-1990 house in NSW: asbestos checks
What to check for asbestos before buying an older home in Sydney, including the loose-fill register.
Should I worry about asbestos when buying an older house?
Plan for it rather than panic. The NSW EPA says a house built before 1990 probably contains asbestos materials, and these are often best left alone if in good condition (source).
How do I check for loose-fill asbestos (Mr Fluffy)?
Search the address on the NSW Loose-fill Asbestos Insulation Register (NSW Government). The Section 10.7 planning certificate must also say whether the property is on the register. Not being listed doesn't prove a house is asbestos-free.
Does a building inspection find asbestos?
A standard pre-purchase building inspection may flag suspected asbestos but generally doesn't test it. For certainty, ask a licensed asbestos assessor or hygienist for a survey with lab results.
How do I budget for removal?
Get a removal quote before or soon after settlement if you plan to renovate. See our cost guide and fibro removal cost.
Get a free quote from a licensed removalist
Sydney Asbestos Quotes is a free referral service. We are not an asbestos removalist and we do not hold an asbestos removal licence. We pass your request to independent removalists who say they hold a current SafeWork NSW licence, and you should always check a removalist's licence yourself before you engage them. Nothing on this site is safety or legal advice; see SafeWork NSW.