From 1921 to the late 1980s, asbestos was widely used in the Australian building industry. It was cheap and versatile and used in many building products and processes, including roofing, cladding, insulation and flooring. According to the Australian Asbestos Network, it is estimated that over one million homes in Australia were built using asbestos before 1990.

 

If you are planning a renovation or residential demolition in Sydney, you need to have your property inspected for asbestos and, should it be detected, you will need to have it safely removed by licensed professionals. 

Let’s guide you through the process of selecting the right asbestos removal services in Sydney with a few tips and tricks along the way.

 

The Importance of Asbestos Removal Providers

Asbestos is a mineral that poses severe health risks and, when disturbed, can lead to lung diseases and cancers. Its safe removal must be taken very seriously. Here are a few key considerations when looking for asbestos removal providers.

 

Certification and Licensing

 

Check if the asbestos removal service provider is certified and licensed to operate in New South Wales. Proper certification by local authorities means that the company adheres to the necessary safety and environmental regulations. According to SafeWork NSW, you must always use a licensed asbestos professional to remove more than 10 sqm of bonded asbestos or any amount of friable asbestos.

Experience and Expertise

Experience matters when it comes to asbestos removal. Look for companies with a proven track record of successfully handling asbestos removal in Sydney house demolition projects and other types of removals. Experienced professionals are better equipped to assess, contain and remove asbestos safely.

Compliance with Regulations

Asbestos removal is strictly regulated in Sydney and New South Wales. Ensure that the removal service follows all local and national regulations regarding asbestos handling and disposal. Compliance is essential to avoid legal issues, especially now as Safe Work NSW inspectors can issue on-the-spot fines to workers who don’t follow asbestos-safe work procedures.

Safety protocols

Safety should be a top priority in asbestos removal. Inquire about the safety protocols and measures the service provider has in place. This includes using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), notifying neighbours of the removal work and following the industry code of practice.

References and recommendations

Check the references of every asbestos removal service provider and reach out to past clients if possible. Recommendations from satisfied customers will provide valuable insights into the service provider's reliability and competence as well as their adherence to safety and state regulations

Tips and tricks for finding the right asbestos removal services

Research multiple removal service providers

Don't settle for the first asbestos removal service you come across. Research and compare multiple service providers in Sydney. This allows you to assess their qualifications, prices, and services. If the removal is part of a demolition process, ask your demolition company if they can undertake the work or to recommend a few removal companies as well.

Request written quotes

It may sound obvious, but be sure to ask for written quotes from the asbestos removal service providers you're considering. A detailed written quote should include the scope of work, estimated costs, timeline on completion, and any additional charges.

Understand the Removal Process

To effectively assess the removal company, you need to have a basic understanding of the asbestos removal process. Inform yourself by reading the NSW asbestos code of practice. A reputable service provider should explain the steps they will take derived from this document including containment, removal, disposal and post-removal inspection

Verify Insurance Coverage

Asbestos removal is a hazardous and dangerous process and mistakes can happen. Ensure that the asbestos removal service provider has adequate insurance coverage to protect you from liability in case of accidents or mishaps during the removal process.

 

Ask about disposal methods

Inquire about the disposal methods the service provider uses. Check their transport protocols and which approved asbestos landfills they use.

 

Check for environmental responsibility

Choose a service provider that follows environmentally friendly and sustainable asbestos removal practices. Check their recycling methods, environmental policies and whether their practices prioritise environmental issues.

Communication and Transparency

Choose an asbestos removal service that is responsive to your queries and transparent in all dealings. If a service provider is uncommunicative, they may be unprofessional, inadequate in resources, or even engaging in questionable practices.

Consider emergency services

In some cases, asbestos removal may become urgent, particularly in the unanticipated discovery of asbestos on your property or during a demolition. Check that the service provider can cater to unexpected finds if needed.

Conclusion

Finding the right asbestos removal providers in Sydney requires diligent research to keep you compliant and safe. Prioritise certification, experience, compliance with regulations, safety protocols and references to make sure that your asbestos removal project is handled professionally and safely.