Clear answers to help you understand asbestos safety.
Basic details about the consultancy, services offered, and how to get started.
An asbestos register allows a body corporate to track asbestos containing materials in common areas of the property. It helps prevent exposure during maintenance or repairs and supports compliance with WHS laws. The register is also useful for planning future renovations and shows that the body corporate is managing its risk appropriately.
Only buildings built before 2004 and used as a workplace or for commercial purposes are required to have an asbestos register. This includes shared areas of apartment buildings if tradespeople or workers use them regularly. If the building was constructed after 2004, a written statement is still needed to confirm the absence of asbestos. You can review these requirements on the Queensland Government’s asbestos register guide.
A trained professional collects a small sample of the material and sends it to a NATA certified laboratory. The lab determines whether asbestos is present and what type it is. This testing helps confirm if materials should be recorded in the asbestos register and supports accurate reporting.
While the body corporate manages the register, it must be based on professional inspection and testing. Doing it without proper expertise may result in errors or non-compliance. A professional ensures that all updates reflect the true state of the property and meet current legal standards.
If asbestos containing material is undamaged and unlikely to be disturbed, it can remain in place. However, it must still be listed in the register and monitored regularly. Future work in the area must consider the risks and take appropriate control measures.
No. The register lists the location and details of asbestos, while the management plan outlines how the risks will be controlled. Together, they help the body corporate manage asbestos safely and meet their compliance obligations.
Asbestos is more common in homes built before 1990, especially in materials like roofing, insulation, and flooring. If the property is old or has undergone renovations, it’s crucial to get an asbestos inspection to check for any hidden risks.
Absolutely. An asbestos report will identify where asbestos-containing materials are located, which is essential if you plan on renovating. It helps you plan safe removal or management during construction to avoid health risks and costly delays.
Finding asbestos after the purchase means it’s your responsibility to manage or remove it. However, having a pre-purchase asbestos report helps you anticipate and plan for these costs, preventing financial surprises.
The cost of an asbestos report is typically a small percentage of your overall property investment, but it could save you thousands in unexpected remediation or repairs. The price varies depending on the size of the property and the complexity of the inspection.
Yes, having a comprehensive asbestos report can help with insurance coverage. Insurers may require proof that asbestos is identified and managed before offering certain policies or agreeing to renovations.
The legislation states “at least every 5 years”
you choose to remove asbestos, it must be done by licensed professionals. Ensure you have an asbestos management plan in place, including secure removal and disposal methods, to comply with Queensland regulations.
To learn more about inspection options or reporting processes, you can refer to our contact information or browse our detailed overview of asbestos report requirements.
Not all homes necessarily need it, but any property built before 1990 should be assessed. Many homes built in this time contain asbestos in materials such as cement sheeting, insulation, and floor tiles. These materials can be hazardous, especially when disturbed during renovations or daily wear and tear. It’s always best to have a professional asbestos inspection report before committing to a purchase.
Asbestos isn’t always immediately dangerous if it’s undisturbed and in good condition. However, over time, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can degrade due to environmental factors like weather, vibration, or even just age. When asbestos fibres are released into the air, they can cause severe respiratory diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Even if you don’t see any immediate danger, it’s highly recommended to remove asbestos as soon as possible to avoid future risks and health complications. An asbestos report will help you assess the condition and decide the best course of action, including removal.
Not necessarily. An asbestos report simply helps you make an informed decision. If asbestos is found, you can use the findings to negotiate the cost of removal or request that the seller addresses the issue before settlement. Having this report in hand puts you in a position of strength in the buying process and prevents any nasty surprises down the line. It’s a proactive step that can help you secure a safe and sound investment, even if asbestos is found.
No, removing asbestos on your own is not recommended. Queensland legislation requires that asbestos removal is carried out by licensed professionals with the appropriate training and equipment. Improper removal can cause more harm by releasing dangerous fibres into the air. Always hire professional asbestos removalists to ensure safe, compliant removal and avoid costly fines or legal issues. An asbestos report can help you understand what needs to be done, and professional services can then guide you through the safe removal process.
In many cases, the seller is not legally obligated to disclose the presence of asbestos, unless it’s been officially documented or the building is subject to specific regulations. Asbestos disclosure laws vary, so it’s important to do your due diligence. Even if the seller doesn’t disclose asbestos, it’s your responsibility as the buyer to ensure the property is safe. A professional asbestos inspection will uncover potential issues, allowing you to make informed decisions or negotiate the sale accordingly. A pre-purchase asbestos report is the safest way to avoid unexpected problems later on.
If you’re buying a property in Queensland—especially one built before 1990—don’t skip the asbestos inspection. The risks are too great to ignore, and the cost of testing is small compared to the potential health and financial impacts down the line.
AHI Asbestos Consultants provides professional asbestos inspection and reporting for residential buyers across Queensland. Our team offers detailed, easy-to-understand reports tailored to home purchases—helping you make safe, informed decisions.
To learn more about inspection options or reporting processes, you can refer to our contact information or browse our detailed overview of asbestos report requirements.
Take the first step toward a safer space today. Our licensed experts provide thorough inspections, and full compliance with Australian safety standards—giving you peace of mind that your home or workplace is protected.