Kotara, a vibrant suburb nestled in Newcastle’s west, is well known for its shopping, schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. With a mix of older homes and newer developments, it offers a blend of character and convenience. But for many properties in Kotara—particularly those built before the 1990s—there may be a hidden hazard that demands serious attention: asbestos.
If you’re living in Kotara or planning renovations on a property in the area, it’s crucial to understand the risks of asbestos and the importance of hiring a licensed removalist. That’s where Asbestaway, one of Newcastle’s most trusted asbestos removal companies, comes in.
In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore what asbestos is, why it poses a danger, where it might be found in Kotara homes, and why choosing a licensed provider like Asbestaway is the safest, most compliant solution.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Harmful?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that was once widely used in the building industry due to its strength, heat resistance, and insulating properties. Between the 1940s and late 1980s, it was a staple in Australian construction materials, especially for roofing, wall cladding, fencing, and insulation.
The danger lies in the fibres. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed—whether through damage, deterioration, or renovation—they can release microscopic fibres into the air. These fibres, when inhaled, can become lodged in the lungs and cause long-term, often fatal, health problems such as:
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Asbestosis – a lung condition resulting from long-term fibre exposure
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Mesothelioma – an aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen
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Lung cancer
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Pleural plaques and thickening – early indicators of asbestos-related disease
The latency period for symptoms can be 20 to 40 years, making early detection and safe removal critical.
Asbestos in Kotara: Why It’s a Local Concern
Kotara’s residential landscape includes many homes built during or prior to the asbestos construction boom. These properties are often charming and structurally sound but may contain hidden asbestos materials in areas such as:
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Corrugated roof sheeting
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Eaves and soffits
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Internal wall and ceiling linings
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Vinyl flooring and adhesive
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Bathroom and laundry walls
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Fences, especially pre-1980s cement sheeting types
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Insulation around water pipes and hot water systems
Many of these materials are considered “bonded asbestos”, meaning the fibres are encapsulated. However, once they degrade or are disturbed—during home improvements, for example—they can become dangerous.
DIY vs. Licensed Asbestos Removal: Don’t Take the Risk
While DIY culture is alive and well across Newcastle, asbestos is one area where the risks are simply too great. Under NSW law, you cannot remove more than 10 square metres of bonded asbestos unless you hold a licence. Friable asbestos, which crumbles easily and releases fibres more readily, must only be removed by a Class A licensed contractor.
Attempting to handle asbestos on your own can lead to:
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Serious health risks to you, your family, and even neighbours
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Contamination of your home or garden
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Illegal disposal and hefty fines
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Legal liability if others are exposed due to improper handling
There’s no shortcut that justifies putting lives at risk. That’s why homeowners in Kotara turn to Asbestaway—a fully licensed, insured, and experienced asbestos removal company.
Meet Asbestaway: Kotara’s Trusted Asbestos Experts
Asbestaway has built a reputation across Newcastle and the Hunter Region for safe, thorough, and fully compliant asbestos removal services in kotara. With an experienced team of licensed removalists, Asbestaway ensures your property is managed with the highest standards of care and safety.
What Sets Asbestaway Apart?
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✅ Class A and B licences – allowing the removal of all types of asbestos
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✅ Years of experience in residential and commercial properties
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✅ Complete service offering – from testing and inspection to removal, disposal, and clearance certificates
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✅ Commitment to safety – strict adherence to SafeWork NSW guidelines
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✅ Transparent pricing – with detailed quotes and no hidden fees
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✅ Local knowledge – understanding Kotara’s housing history and common asbestos locations
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or renovator, Asbestaway delivers peace of mind with every project.
The Asbestos Removal Process with Asbestaway
Here’s what you can expect when you engage Asbestaway for asbestos removal in Kotara:
1. Initial Inspection and Testing
The first step is a site visit where trained professionals inspect your property for signs of ACMs. If necessary, they collect samples for laboratory testing to confirm the presence and type of asbestos.
2. Detailed Quotation and Risk Management Plan
You’ll receive a clear, written quote along with a work plan outlining the risks, proposed safety measures, and the removal strategy tailored to your property.
3. Safe and Compliant Removal
Using advanced safety equipment, including negative air systems and personal protective gear, Asbestaway safely removes the asbestos while containing any potential spread.
4. Responsible Disposal
All asbestos waste is double-bagged, clearly labelled, and transported to a licensed disposal facility, in line with NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulations.
5. Decontamination and Clearance
After removal, the area is thoroughly cleaned, and if friable asbestos was involved, air monitoring and clearance certification will be provided by an independent assessor.
When Should You Call Asbestaway?
You should contact Asbestaway if:
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You’re renovating or demolishing an older home
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You’ve discovered suspicious materials such as old cement sheeting, insulation, or textured paint
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You’re selling or buying a property and need asbestos testing
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You’re a landlord or property manager responsible for tenant safety
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You want to upgrade a roof, fence, or bathroom in a pre-1990s property
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to have the material professionally assessed before proceeding. It may be harmless in its current state—or it may not.
How Much Does Asbestos Removal in Kotara Cost?
Costs vary depending on several factors, including:
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The type of asbestos (bonded or friable)
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The amount and location of the material
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Whether testing, air monitoring, or clearance certificates are required
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Access and structural complexity
Asbestaway offers no-obligation quotes, ensuring you have all the information before making a decision. Their team is happy to explain the scope of work in simple terms and provide budget-friendly options where possible.
Local Testimonials
“Asbestaway were so professional and helpful when we discovered asbestos in our eaves during a renovation. They explained everything and handled it safely and quickly.”
— Anna W., Kotara South
“The team at Asbestaway made what could’ve been a stressful experience really straightforward. We felt safe throughout the process. Highly recommend!”
— Mark T., Kotara
“From inspection to removal, everything was done to a high standard. Great communication and no mess left behind.”
— Rachel S., Newcastle
Why Acting Now Matters
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is delaying action on asbestos because “it’s not causing problems now.” Unfortunately, accidents can happen—a cracked wall, storm damage, or DIY project gone wrong can all release fibres.
By proactively identifying and removing asbestos, you not only protect your health but also maintain or improve your property’s value and safety. Plus, if you’re planning renovations, you won’t face costly delays due to last-minute asbestos discoveries.
Final Thoughts
Asbestos is a serious issue that requires serious solutions. If you live in Kotara or anywhere across Newcastle, don’t risk your health or your family’s safety with DIY attempts or unlicensed operators. Whether you’re updating your bathroom, removing an old shed, or planning a major renovation, the team at Asbestaway is ready to help.
With a commitment to safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance, Asbestaway ensures your asbestos concerns are handled thoroughly and responsibly—so you can focus on enjoying your home.