If you’re a property owner, landlord, or business operator in New Zealand, staying on the right side of asbestos regulations isn’t just smart — it’s the law. With strict rules in place under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, understanding your responsibilities could protect not just your wallet, but people’s lives.
Here’s a practical guide to staying compliant — without the legal jargon.
Why Asbestos Compliance Matters
Asbestos was banned in New Zealand in 2016, but many buildings still contain it. The law now focuses on managing asbestos risk, especially in the workplace or rented properties.
Failure to comply can lead to serious health consequences and legal penalties. WorkSafe NZ enforces these regulations, and they don’t go easy on those who ignore them.
Who Is Responsible for Asbestos Compliance?
If you’re a:
Landlord
Property manager
Business owner
Tradesperson or contractor
…you have a legal duty to manage asbestos risks in any building you control or work on. This includes identifying potential asbestos, maintaining a register, and ensuring it’s either safely managed or removed.
The 3 Key Steps to Stay Compliant
1.
Identify Any Asbestos
You must identify any asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your building — particularly in workplaces or rental properties built before 2000.
This is usually done through:
An asbestos survey
Professional sampling and testing
A Management Survey is most common for compliance purposes.
👉 Tip: If you’re doing renovations or demolition, you’ll need a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey — a more intrusive inspection.
2.
Keep an Asbestos Management Plan
If asbestos is found, you’re legally required to create and maintain an Asbestos Management Plan. This must include:
The location and condition of asbestos
How the risks will be monitored or controlled
Steps for safe work around it
Emergency procedures if asbestos is accidentally disturbed
You must review and update this plan regularly — especially if the condition changes.
3.
Use Licensed Professionals
In most cases, especially with friable asbestos (crumbles easily), you must use a Class A or Class B licensed asbestos removalist.
DIY removal is limited in NZ and only permitted in very small amounts (under 10m² of non-friable material), but even then, it’s discouraged by WorkSafe.
Always hire certified experts for testing, surveying, and removal — it’s safer and ensures compliance.
When Is Compliance Required?
You must assess asbestos risks:
Before renovations, repairs, or demolition
When leasing or purchasing older commercial properties
As part of your ongoing health and safety obligations as a PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking)
How Often Should You Check Asbestos?
There’s no fixed rule, but WorkSafe recommends reviewing your asbestos register:
Every 5 years, or
Immediately if ACMs are disturbed, removed, or damaged
Regular checks keep everyone safer — and prove you’re meeting your obligations.
Penalties for Non-Compliance Fines can be significant:
Up to $50,000 for individuals
Up to $250,000 or more for businesses
Beyond the legal costs, there’s also the risk of exposing workers, tenants, or family members to long-term health hazards.
The Safe and Smart Approach
Compliance doesn’t need to be hard — but it does require a proactive approach. A simple asbestos survey or test could be all you need to get started.
Working with professionals like us ensures everything’s done to WorkSafe NZ standards, giving you peace of mind and full legal cover.