Information during Coronavirus (COVID-19)

01 Apr 2020

 

 

Thinking of making improvements to your home?

Spending more time at home may prompt you to make some improvements around your house or property.

However, many houses built before 1990 contain asbestos cement materials, especially in the eaves, ceilings, internal and external wall cladding (particularly in wet areas such as bathrooms and laundries). Old sheds and fences may also contain asbestos.

If it is likely that you may come across asbestos, you should contact professionals before starting any work on your home. Exposure to airborne asbestos fibres may cause life-threatening illnesses.

Engaging experts who know how to manage this work safely will protect you, your family and your neighbours from this risk. Currently, asbestos assessors and licensed removalists are continuing to work but, depending on the level of restrictions, may only be allowed to attend critical repairs where required for emergency or safety. Some may choose not to come to your house as a precautionary measure.
 

What if I’ve already damaged asbestos?

If you have already exposed or damaged asbestos in your home, it presents an ongoing health hazard to people in your home and needs to be removed straight away.

When you call an asbestos assessor or removalist to come to your home, you must each follow the latest government coronavirus restrictions and guidelines.

Many of the measures used for the safe removal of asbestos, such as isolating the work area, wearing of personal protective equipment and decontamination procedures, are also helpful in preventing the spread of the coronavirus. There is useful information about how to look after your family and any tradesperson who comes to your home during the coronavirus pandemic. You can find an example of such information here

Remember, like plumbing and electrical work, asbestos removal – or renovations that might uncover asbestos - are jobs best left to the experts.

 

I’m worried about my neighbour’s renovations

Your local council should be your first place to call. You can check our contacts for all states and territories here.

 

Information for tradespeople entering homes to conduct in-house services can be found at Safe Work Australia.

This information may also be useful for homeowners who plan to contract tradespeople for work. 

 

Stay informed. Download the official government “Coronavirus Australia” app in the Apple App Store or Google Play, or join our WhatsApp channel on iOS or Android.