Ask an Asbestos Expert: If My Home in Melbourne Has Asbestos, Do I Have to Get it Removed?

Welcome to another segment of “Ask an Asbestos Expert,” where we address your concerns and answer the most pressing questions from Melbourne homeowners about asbestos.

Today, we’re tackling the query: Can you live in a house with asbestos?

At Asbestos Australia, our Melbourne asbestos experts are here to guide you through the complexities of living with asbestos, helping you make informed decisions for your home and health.

Why is asbestos not used anymore?

Asbestos was once lauded for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat, which made it a popular choice in building materials. However, its link to serious health issues led to a halt in its use. When disturbed, asbestos fibres can become airborne and pose a significant health risk upon inhalation.

Why is asbestos dangerous?

Asbestos is hazardous because its fine fibres can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause inflammation, scarring, and eventually lead to severe asbestos related diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

Is all asbestos bad?

While not all asbestos immediately poses a risk to health, the potential for its fibres to become airborne if disturbed makes it a concern.

Friable asbestos can easily result in airborne asbestos fibres and should be handled with care.

Asbestos in good condition (usually non-friable bonded asbestos) and left undisturbed may not pose an immediate threat, but its presence can affect decisions related to renovations, repairs, or selling your home.

Should I get it removed?

Deciding to remove asbestos depends on several factors:

• The condition of the asbestos (damaged, deteriorating, or likely to be disturbed).
• Plans for renovation or alterations that might disturb asbestos-containing materials.
• Overall concern for resident health and long-term safety.

Scenario Example:

Tom and Rita discovered asbestos in the old garage of their Melbourne home. Concerned about the potential risk, they were unsure if removal was necessary, considering the asbestos was in good condition and undisturbed.

After a consultation with expert licensed asbestos professionals, they learned that immediate removal wasn’t required, but they were advised on measures to monitor the asbestos and maintain its integrity to prevent fibre release.

They also received recommendations for safe handling during future renovations to avoid asbestos exposure. This helped them to be informed and prepared to make the best decisions for their home’s safety.

Who can help?

Consulting with a licensed asbestos professional is the best step to assess the risk and determine if removal of the asbestos containing material is necessary. They can provide expert advice, testing, and safe removal services if required.

How Asbestos Australia Can Help

Understanding your concern about asbestos in your Melbourne home, Asbestos Australia offers comprehensive services to address your asbestos issues safely and effectively. Here’s how we can assist:

• Expert Assessment and Testing: Our licensed professionals can conduct thorough inspections and testing to identify the presence and extent of asbestos materials in your home. This critical first step ensures that any action taken is informed and precise.
• Safe Removal and Disposal: If asbestos removal is deemed necessary, our team is equipped to handle the job safely, following all regulatory guidelines to ensure the health of your family and our team. We also take care of the legal disposal of asbestos waste, giving you peace of mind.
• Informative Guidance: Beyond removal, we provide valuable advice on managing asbestos in your home, helping you understand when it’s safe to live with asbestos and when removal is the best option. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge so you can make the best decisions for your home and health.

Choosing to engage with professionals like Asbestos Australia ensures you have access to accurate information, expert services, and peace of mind when dealing with asbestos in your home.

Worried about asbestos in your home? Call us on 03 9704 2952 or make an enquiry here.

Tommy Clappers

Tommy Clappers is the Owner and Founder of Asbestos Australia Removalist specialising as a Class A & B Licensed Company with highly trained ticketed staff with over 25+ years in the industry in Friable & Non-Friable Commercial, Industrial & Domestic. He's well-skilled in all types of Asbestos Removal and Hazardous Materials. He's an expert in Encapsulation, Soil Remediation and Industrial Cleaning. He prides himself on creating safer environments for his team and his client's safety and ensuring every removal is safe and clean. He currently resides in Melbourne, Australia.

Posted By: Tommy Clappers