If your home was built or renovated before the year 2000, there’s a real chance it contains asbestos. It was once a go-to material in construction across New Zealand — praised for its fire resistance, durability, and insulation. The problem? It’s also a dangerous carcinogen when fibres become airborne and inhaled.
Whether you’re renovating, buying, or just curious, here’s where asbestos could be hiding in your home — and why it’s best left undisturbed.
Where is Asbestos Found in NZ Homes?
In New Zealand, asbestos was commonly used in homes built between the 1940s and late 1980s. It was used in over 3,000 products, especially in areas exposed to heat, moisture, or fire. The six most likely spots? Keep reading.
1.
Ceilings (Textured/Popcorn Ceilings)
One of the most frequent hiding spots is right above you — in textured or “popcorn” ceilings. These were especially popular between the 1960s and 1980s. They were sprayed on for fireproofing and sound dampening, and often contain friable asbestos (which crumbles easily and poses higher risk if disturbed).
Where does asbestos show up?
Ceilings are one of the first places it does — particularly in older homes and flats.
2.
Vinyl Flooring and Backing
Yes — your floors could be hiding asbestos too. Vinyl floor tiles and sheet flooring often contained asbestos in both the tile and the black bitumen adhesive or paper backing underneath. You may not even realise it until you lift a corner during a DIY job.
Where is asbestos in flooring?
It can be in the tiles themselves, the glue, or the cushion backing of vinyl sheeting.
3.
Wall Cladding and Internal Linings
Asbestos-cement sheeting (commonly known as fibrolite or Hardiflex) was used inside and outside homes. You’ll often find it in:
- Internal wall linings
- Exterior cladding
- Soffits (the underside of eaves)
- Gable ends
- Laundry and bathroom linings
These are often non-friable (bonded), but cutting, sanding or breaking them can still release harmful fibres.
Where is asbestos most commonly found in homes?
Wall linings and cladding are very common spots in Kiwi homes.
4.
Roofing and Eaves
Old super six roofing, corrugated sheets, and roof underlays may contain asbestos — especially in homes and garages built prior to the 80s. Eaves and soffits, being exposed to moisture, often used asbestos-cement to prevent rot and fire damage.
Where asbestos hides?
Check above — roof spaces and eaves are classic hiding places.
5.
Insulation and Pipe Lagging
Although less common in residential properties, some older homes used asbestos for:
- Hot water pipe lagging
- Boiler insulation
- Flue pipes
This material is typically friable and highly dangerous if disturbed.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY
Just because you think you’ve found asbestos doesn’t mean you should remove or even touch it. Some types of asbestos are relatively stable unless damaged — but others release harmful fibres into the air with the lightest disturbance.
Always test first. Always use licensed professionals.
What To Do If You’re Unsure
If you’re planning renovations or repairs, it’s best to get an asbestos survey or sample testing done. This helps you stay safe, avoid costly delays, and comply with legal requirements — especially if you’re a landlord or business.
Unsure if your home has asbestos?
Book a professional sampling or survey before you renovate.