Asbestos, once hailed as a “miracle material” for its insulation and fire-resistant qualities, has since become one of the most serious public health threats related to property ownership and construction. While Australia banned the use of asbestos in all forms in 2003, millions of homes, schools, offices, and industrial buildings built before then still contain asbestos in some form.
Whether you’re planning a renovation, demolition, or simply want to ensure your family’s safety, understanding asbestos—how to identify it, why it’s dangerous, and how to remove it properly—is critical. In Campbelltown and surrounding areas, professional asbestos removal services play a vital role in helping homeowners and developers maintain safe, compliant environments.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about asbestos, including why professional removal is essential, the process involved, legal obligations, and how to choose the right contractor.
What Is Asbestos and Why Was It Used?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of fine, durable fibres that are resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion. These properties made it highly attractive in the construction industry, especially between the 1940s and 1980s. It was used in:
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Roofing sheets and tiles
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Wall linings and insulation
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Floor tiles and adhesives
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Cement sheeting (commonly known as “fibro”)
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Eaves, gutters, and fencing
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Lagging on pipes and boilers
However, when disturbed, asbestos materials can release tiny, airborne fibres. Inhalation of these fibres has been conclusively linked to serious and often fatal diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. What makes asbestos especially dangerous is its latency period—these diseases may take 20–40 years to manifest after exposure.
Do You Have Asbestos in Your Property?
If your property was built before the 1990s, especially in suburbs like Campbelltown that saw major development during that era, there’s a strong possibility it contains asbestos.
Unfortunately, asbestos isn’t always visible to the naked eye. It can be hidden behind walls, under floors, or in roof cavities. It’s important not to make assumptions based on appearance. If you suspect your property may contain asbestos, the first step is to arrange for professional asbestos testing and inspection.
When Is Asbestos Removal Necessary?
Here are some common situations where asbestos removal may be required:
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Renovations or Extensions – Cutting into walls, floors, or ceilings that may contain asbestos can release harmful fibres.
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Demolition Projects – Before any demolition, the site must be inspected for asbestos-containing materials and cleared.
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Property Sale or Rental – Disclosure of asbestos may be required for legal or insurance reasons.
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Storm Damage – Broken roofing or insulation can expose asbestos materials.
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Occupational Health Risks – In commercial and industrial settings, asbestos must be managed or removed to meet workplace safety standards.
In all these cases, removal must be handled by licensed professionals to ensure the safety of workers, residents, and the wider community.
The Legal Framework in NSW
In New South Wales, asbestos handling is tightly regulated under:
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Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 (NSW)
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SafeWork NSW Guidelines
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Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) regulations
If more than 10 square meters of non-friable (bonded) asbestos needs to be removed, a licensed contractor is legally required. For friable asbestos (loose or crumbly), only a Class A licensed professional can carry out the work.
Failing to comply with these laws can result in severe penalties, including fines and criminal charges.
The Asbestos Removal Process
Professional asbestos removal is a meticulous and multi-step process that includes:
1. Site Assessment and Sample Testing
A licensed asbestos assessor visits your property to inspect suspected materials and collect samples for lab testing.
2. Risk Management and Planning
If asbestos is detected, the team will develop a removal strategy tailored to your site, considering the type of asbestos, the location, and potential risks.
3. Containment and Removal
The area is sealed off using plastic sheeting and negative pressure units to prevent fibre escape. Trained professionals then carefully remove the asbestos using approved tools and safety equipment.
4. Safe Disposal
All asbestos waste is double-bagged, labeled, and transported to EPA-approved disposal sites.
5. Clearance Inspection
Once the work is complete, an independent inspector verifies that the site is clean and safe. A clearance certificate is issued before any further construction can proceed.
Why DIY Is Not an Option
Trying to remove asbestos yourself is not only illegal in most cases—it’s extremely dangerous. Improper removal can release thousands of fibres into the air, creating long-term health risks for you, your family, and your neighbors.
Even minor mistakes, such as using power tools or failing to contain dust, can have severe consequences. The peace of mind and legal protection offered by hiring professionals is worth every cent.
Choosing the Right Contractor in Campbelltown
If you’re looking for asbestos removal Campbelltown services, it’s vital to select a contractor who is:
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Fully licensed and insured
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Experienced with both residential and commercial projects
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Compliant with all SafeWork NSW guidelines
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Transparent in their pricing and reporting
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Able to provide references or reviews from past clients
Reputable companies will not only remove the asbestos but also provide documentation, disposal records, and follow-up support as needed.
Final Thoughts
Asbestos may be out of use, but it still poses a significant risk in many older properties across Campbelltown and greater Sydney. Whether you’re renovating a family home or preparing a commercial site for redevelopment, dealing with asbestos the right way isn’t just smart—it’s legally and ethically necessary.
Professional asbestos removal ensures your project can move forward safely, your legal obligations are met, and your health (and that of others) is protected for years to come.
If you’re unsure whether your property contains asbestos, don’t wait. Schedule an inspection with a licensed expert today and take the first step toward a safer environment.