Asbestos was once a common building material in New Zealand homes and buildings, especially those constructed before the year 2000. But today, it’s a well-known health hazard — and if you think you’ve found it, knowing what to do (and what not to do) is critical.
How to Check for Asbestos at Home
You can’t identify asbestos just by looking at it. Asbestos fibres are microscopic, and many materials that contain it look just like materials that don’t. That’s why the safest way to check is through professional asbestos sampling and testing.
If you suspect a material in your home contains asbestos — such as old textured ceilings, vinyl flooring, or exterior cladding — don’t touch or disturb it. Instead:
- Leave it in place – disturbing it could release harmful fibres into the air.
- Contact a licensed asbestos assessor or testing service like Asbestos Services.
- Have a sample safely collected and tested in a laboratory.
Professional testing can confirm whether asbestos is present, and if so, what type (such as chrysotile or amosite), and whether it poses an immediate risk.
What to Do if Exposed to Asbestos at Home
If you think you’ve been exposed — say, during DIY renovations or drilling into a wall — don’t panic. A one-off, short-term exposure is unlikely to cause major harm. However, asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma are linked to long-term or repeated exposure.
Here’s what you should do:
- Leave the area immediately and avoid further disturbance.
- Seal off the area if possible.
- Change and bag your clothing, and shower to remove any fibres from your skin and hair.
- Contact a professional asbestos service to assess the situation.
- If you’re concerned about your health, speak to your GP and keep a record of the exposure.
Can a Homeowner Remove Asbestos in NZ?
Technically yes — but it’s highly discouraged. In New Zealand, homeowners can legally remove up to 10m² of non-friable (bonded) asbestos themselves, but only if they follow strict WorkSafe guidelines.
However, there are real risks:
- Incorrect handling can release fibres into the air.
- No guarantee of complete removal or safety.
- You may be legally liable if others are exposed.
That’s why WorkSafe NZ strongly recommends using a licensed asbestos removalist, especially for friable asbestos or larger jobs. Class A and Class B certified professionals are trained to manage these materials safely and in compliance with NZ regulations.
Where is Asbestos Most Commonly Found in NZ Homes?
Asbestos was widely used in building products between the 1940s and the late 1980s. You’ll often find it in:
- Textured ceilings (e.g., “popcorn” ceilings)
- Vinyl flooring and backing
- Fibre cement sheeting (e.g., walls, cladding, soffits)
- Old roofing materials
- Pipe lagging and insulation around hot water systems
- Exterior wall claddings and fences
If your home was built before 2000, there’s a good chance it could contain some asbestos materials.
Final Word: Safety First
If you think you’ve found asbestos in your home or building, the best thing you can do is step back and call a professional. The risks of disturbing asbestos aren’t worth it, and testing is quick, affordable, and could protect your health and that of your family.
Concerned about asbestos in your home?
Contact our licensed team for fast, safe asbestos sampling and testing you can trust.