Asbestos is a word that often sparks concern among homeowners, renovators, and even businesses. Once considered a miracle material for its fire-resistant and durable properties, asbestos is now known to pose serious health risks when fibres become airborne and are inhaled. If you suspect asbestos in your property, the big question arises: should you remove asbestos or leave it alone? And if removal is necessary, what is the best way to dispose of asbestos safely and legally?

This article explores the risks of asbestos, when it’s safer to leave it untouched, when removal is unavoidable, and the correct disposal methods. We’ll also highlight why professional services such as ABC Demolition Group play a crucial role in ensuring safety and compliance.

Understanding Asbestos and Why It’s Dangerous

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in Australia until the late 1980s in building materials such as roofing, flooring, wall sheeting, insulation, and cement products. It was valued for its strength and resistance to fire and chemicals.

However, asbestos fibres are microscopic and, when disturbed, can be easily inhaled. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health conditions, including:

• Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by scarring of lung tissue.
• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
• Lung Cancer: Increased risk, particularly among smokers exposed to asbestos.

Because of these risks, asbestos is strictly regulated, and both homeowners and contractors must follow safety guidelines when dealing with it.

Should You Remove Asbestos or Leave It?

One of the biggest misconceptions about asbestos is that it always needs to be removed immediately. In fact, in many cases, asbestos materials are safer left in place if they are in good condition and undisturbed.

When It’s Best to Leave Asbestos Alone:

• Stable Condition: If the asbestos-containing material (ACM) is intact, sealed, and undamaged, it poses minimal risk.
• Out of Reach: Materials hidden in walls, ceilings, or under flooring are less likely to release fibres if untouched.
• Low-Use Areas: Asbestos in parts of the property that aren’t frequently accessed (e.g., old roofing or subfloors) may not require removal.

In these cases, the safest course of action is often to monitor the material, avoid drilling, sanding, or cutting it, and only take further steps if deterioration occurs.

When Asbestos Removal is Necessary:

On the other hand, removal becomes essential if:

• The asbestos is damaged, crumbling, or friable (easily broken).
• You’re planning renovations that could disturb asbestos materials.
• The asbestos is in a high-traffic area, making it more likely to be disturbed.
• You’re planning to sell your property and asbestos presence is a barrier to buyers.

In these situations, leaving asbestos in place may expose you and others to serious health risks. Professional removal is the only safe choice.

DIY Asbestos Removal vs. Professional Removal

Technically, some jurisdictions allow homeowners to remove very small amounts of non-friable asbestos themselves. However, the risks are enormous if you don’t have the right equipment, training, or disposal plan.

Risks of DIY Asbestos Removal:

• Fibre Release: Improper handling can release dangerous fibres into the air.
• Health Risks: Even one-time exposure can be harmful.
• Legal Issues: Failing to comply with regulations may result in fines.
• Improper Disposal: Dumping asbestos illegally contaminates the environment and risks community health.

Benefits of Professional Removal:

Hiring a licensed asbestos removal service like ABC Demolition Group ensures:

• Safe handling and containment of asbestos materials.
• Compliance with all Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations.
• Correct disposal at approved asbestos waste facilities.
• Peace of mind knowing you and your family are protected.

Professional removal is not just about safety; it’s also about ensuring the job is done thoroughly and legally.

The Best Way to Dispose of Asbestos

Once asbestos has been identified and removed, the question becomes: what’s the safest and most responsible way to dispose of it?

Key Steps in Asbestos Disposal:

1. Containment During Removal
   • Asbestos waste must be carefully wrapped in thick, labelled plastic sheeting (usually 200 microns).
   • Materials should be double-bagged or sealed to prevent fibre escape.
2. Transportation
   • Asbestos waste cannot be thrown in normal household bins.
   • It must be transported in sealed containers or vehicles that prevent fibre release.
3. Approved Disposal Facilities
   • Only licensed landfill sites are permitted to accept asbestos waste.
   • Contact your local council or environmental protection authority (EPA) to find approved facilities.
4. Legal Compliance
   • Regulations vary by state in Australia, but all require strict documentation and disposal processes.
   • Fines for illegal dumping of asbestos can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
5. Professional Services
   • Licensed removal companies, such as ABC Demolition Group, handle every step: containment, removal, transport, and disposal at approved sites.
   • This eliminates risks for homeowners and ensures compliance with all safety laws.

Why Professional Disposal is the Best Option

Disposing of asbestos safely isn’t just about following rules—it’s about protecting human health and the environment. Professional asbestos disposal services offer:

• Specialist Equipment: Including protective clothing, HEPA vacuums, and containment barriers.
• Trained Experts: Licensed asbestos removers understand how to minimise fibre release.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Professionals stay updated with the latest asbestos laws.
• Efficiency: A job that could take a DIYer days is completed quickly and safely.

When you work with experienced companies like ABC Demolition Group, you’re ensuring that asbestos is disposed of in the safest and most environmentally responsible way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Asbestos

Many people unknowingly put themselves and others at risk by handling asbestos incorrectly. Here are some of the most common mistakes:

• Cutting, sanding, or drilling into asbestos materials without realising.
• Throwing asbestos into general waste bins or leaving it on the curb.
• Using household vacuum cleaners to clean asbestos dust (which spreads fibres).
• Failing to wear proper PPE when working near asbestos.
• Hiring unlicensed contractors who may cut corners on safety and disposal.

Avoiding these mistakes could save you from serious health risks and hefty fines.

Cost of Asbestos Removal and Disposal

The cost of asbestos removal varies depending on factors such as:

• Type of asbestos (friable vs. non-friable).
• Quantity of material to be removed.
• Location and accessibility.
• Disposal fees at licensed landfills.

On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $50–$150 per square metre for asbestos removal in Australia. While this might seem costly, the investment is minimal compared to the potential long-term health risks of improper handling.

Final Thoughts: Remove or Leave Asbestos?

So, should you remove asbestos or leave it? The answer depends on its condition and location. If the asbestos is intact, sealed, and unlikely to be disturbed, leaving it in place and monitoring it may be the safest option. However, if the material is damaged, friable, or in an area subject to renovations, removal becomes the only safe choice.

When removal is necessary, never attempt to handle asbestos on your own. Instead, engage a licensed professional who can guarantee safe handling and legal disposal. Companies like ABC Demolition Group have the expertise, equipment, and regulatory knowledge to ensure asbestos risks are eliminated properly.

Asbestos is not a material to take lightly. Proper management, removal, and disposal are essential to protect your health, your family, and the wider community. By choosing professional services, you’re making the safest, smartest decision for the long term.