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Tackling a renovation or rebuild project is daunting enough, but for anyone working on an older house or building there can be serious health risks that go well beyond aching limbs and pulled muscles.
That’s because many pre-2000 Kiwi homes still contain asbestos in some form or another, and it often isn’t always obvious where this potentially deadly material might be hidden.
President of the NZ Asbestos Advisory Group (NZAAG) and director of Orewa-based A1 Asbestos Removal Consultants Kim Allen says asbestos was used in many products between the 1950s and 2000.
“Many homes and commercial buildings will have asbestos-containing materials (ACM) – it can be in roofs, soffits, downpipes, baseboards, eaves and many other areas,” he said. “Inside homes, ‘popcorn’ ceilings are prevalent, as well as tiles for both ceilings and floors.”
Worksafe NZ says that as many buildings and structures that contain asbestos are getting old, there is a high risk of people coming into contact with asbestos when they do repair or renovation work.
“Even people who live or work in these buildings could be at risk, especially if the building gets damaged in some way,” it warns.
Allen says it can be difficult to tell if ACM is present.
“If you suspect ACM, you need to get it tested first,” he says. “The only way to confirm asbestos presence is through a professional inspection and testing. If you suspect it, give us a call, and we will get it tested. We get results in 24 hours.”
As well as testing, asbestos removal companies such as A1 also run asbestos awareness courses for tradespeople, to ensure they can protect themselves and fully understand the rules and regulations around asbestos.
If asbestos is found in a property, it needs dealing with professionally, Allen says.
“Removing asbestos is not a DIY task. It requires specialised training and equipment to ensure safety and compliance with regulations,” he says.
“It poses significant health risks when its fibres are inhaled and there are laws and regulations regarding asbestos disposal.”
One of A1’s bigger local projects was the recent removal of an old Artex ceiling that contained asbestos at Wellsford Golf & Squash Club.
“This was no small operation. Covering more than 400 square metres, the removal required a meticulous ceiling scrape, including the detailing between rafters,” Allen says.
“The team worked under strict air pressure and cleanroom conditions, ensuring there was no leakage of hazardous particles. A dedicated decontamination unit was built, separating clean and dirty zones, and workers were required to change protective equipment every time they re-entered the area, a process designed to protect both staff and the community.”
The process took a month to complete, but the club was able to stay open throughout
“Managing the environment was a complex challenge,” Allen says.
“Throughout the project, the team worked hand-in- hand with the club’s management. Special thanks go to club president Andy Parry, Simon and Adele, whose support and communication ensured everything went smoothly. Their cooperation helped deliver not only a safe and efficient asbestos removal, but also an outcome that respected the club’s priorities.
The asbestos removal came about during extensive renovations and remodelling at the clubhouse, which include a new pro shop, revised layouts, a kitchen upgrade and new carpets. The course itself is also being improved, including new concrete and metal paths, tee blocks and mowers.
What is asbestos and why is it harmful?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of tiny, sharp fibres. When undisturbed, it poses little risk, but if the fibres are released into the air they can get stuck in lungs and cause serious diseases such as asbestosis and cancer.
Asbestos can only be disposed of at designated landfill sites, including Redvale at Dairy Flat.
