How Much Does It Cost to Remove Asbestos at Home?
Asbestos was widely used in Australian homes before the 1990s, often found in walls, ceilings, flooring, and fencing. If you’re a homeowner or renovator considering renovations, understanding the costs and process of asbestos removal is crucial to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
Where Is Asbestos Found in Homes?
Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may be present in:
Walls and ceilings – Common in fibro sheeting and textured coatings.
Roofing and eaves – Corrugated asbestos cement roofing was widely used.
Vinyl flooring and adhesives – Some old vinyl tiles and glues contain asbestos.
Fencing and sheds – Older outdoor structures may have asbestos materials.
Pipes and insulation – Found in older hot water and electrical systems.
What Determines the Cost of Asbestos Removal?
The cost of asbestos remediation varies depending on several factors:
Size and Scope – Larger areas or full-home removals cost more.
Accessibility – Hard-to-reach areas, such as roofing, may increase removal costs.
Type of Asbestos – Friable (high-risk) asbestos is more expensive to remove than bonded asbestos.
Disposal Fees – Asbestos waste must be disposed of at licensed facilities, adding to costs.
Clearance Inspections – Post-removal air monitoring and clearance certificates ensure the area is safe.
Typical Costs of Asbestos Removal
We recommend you reach out to a few asbestos removal contractors to obtain an accurate quote, however included below are estimated costs for common asbestos removal tasks in Australian homes:
Asbestos wall or ceiling panels: $30 - $50 per square metre
Asbestos roofing removal: $50 - $100 per square metre
Asbestos fencing removal: $40 - $80 per metre
Full-house asbestos removal: $10,000 - $30,000, depending on the house size
Air monitoring & clearance certificates: $500 - $2,000
Can I Remove Asbestos Myself?
DIY asbestos removal is highly discouraged due to significant health risks. In NSW, removing more than 10m² of bonded asbestos requires a licensed removalist. Improper handling can release asbestos fibres, leading to severe illnesses like mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Why You Should Engage Professionals
Professional asbestos removal ensures:
Safety compliance – Licensed professionals follow strict WHS and EPA regulations.
Proper containment and disposal – Prevents environmental contamination.
Peace of mind – Clearance inspections confirm the removal area is safe for normal re-occupation.
Choosing the Right Asbestos Removalist
While it’s always a good idea to obtain multiple quotes for asbestos removal, it’s essential to look beyond just the price. The cheapest option may not always be the safest or most reliable. Asbestos removal requires strict safety measures, licensed professionals, and proper disposal procedures. Cutting corners can put your health, your family's safety, and even your legal compliance at risk. Always verify the credentials, experience, and compliance of your chosen removalist before proceeding.
How Confluence Environmental Can Help
At Confluence Environmental, we provide:
Asbestos testing and identification before renovations or demolitions.
Licensed asbestos removal coordination with trusted professionals.
Air monitoring and clearance inspections to confirm safe removal.
Asbestos management plans for homeowners planning long-term renovations.
Protect your family and investment—contact Confluence Environmental today for expert asbestos advice and safe removal solutions.