Renovating an older property can be exciting — but if you skip asbestos checks, it can quickly become expensive, dangerous, and legally messy. In New Zealand, many homes and buildings built before 2000 still contain asbestos, and disturbing it during renovations could cost you far more than you planned.
Here’s why a simple asbestos check before you begin could save you thousands — and potentially even more.
The Hidden Risk in Older Homes
Asbestos was widely used in construction materials throughout NZ until the late 1980s. It can be found in:
- Vinyl flooring
- Ceiling textures
- Wall and soffit linings
- Roofing materials
- Insulation and pipe lagging
The problem? You often can’t see it — and disturbing asbestos releases tiny fibres that are hazardous when inhaled. Renovations, especially demolition or sanding, are high-risk activities if asbestos is present.
The True Cost of Skipping Asbestos Checks
Renovating without checking for asbestos can lead to:
- Project delays if asbestos is discovered mid-renovation
- Emergency removal costs, often at short notice
- Decontamination expenses if fibres spread
- Fines or legal trouble for unsafe work
- Rework or damaged materials due to halted progress
In one recent case, a homeowner had to stop their kitchen renovation halfway through when asbestos was found in the flooring glue — it added over $4,000 in unplanned costs and pushed the job back by 3 weeks.
Why a Pre-Renovation Check Makes Sense
- Identify exactly where asbestos is
- Help you plan the renovation safely
- Prevent delays and added costs
- Ensure compliance with NZ law
- Protect your health, workers, and family
Builders and DIYers: This Affects You Too
Even if you’re tackling a renovation yourself, WorkSafe NZ regulations apply. Any asbestos removal or work involving asbestos must be handled in line with the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016.
Did you know?
Removing over 10m² of asbestos in NZ must be done by a licensed removalist. Even smaller jobs can create risk if you don’t take the right precautions.
Small Investment, Big Savings
Asbestos sampling starts from as little as a few hundred dollars. The cost of an unexpected asbestos discovery mid-renovation? Potentially thousands in removal, delays and compliance costs.
Getting checked first puts you in control — not asbestos.