If your home has been identified as containing asbestos, hiring a licensed asbestos removal company is the safest way to protect your family and ensure the material is handled correctly. However, before the removal team arrives, there are several steps you can take to help the process run smoothly and safely.
Preparing your home in advance not only makes the job more efficient but also helps minimise disruptions and ensures the removal team can begin work immediately. Here’s a complete guide on how to prepare your home before asbestos removal begins.
Confirm the Scope of Work
Before the scheduled removal date, speak with your asbestos removal contractor to confirm exactly what work will be carried out.
Ask questions such as:
- Which areas of the property will be affected?
- How long will the project take?
- Will you need to leave the home?
- Are there any special preparation requirements?
- Will power or water need to be available?
Understanding the process helps you plan accordingly.
Remove Personal Belongings
If possible, clear the work area of personal items before the removal team arrives.
This may include:
- Furniture
- Rugs
- Curtains
- Electronics
- Children’s toys
- Decorative items
- Outdoor furniture near the work area
Removing belongings reduces the risk of damage and makes it easier for the team to work safely.
Keep Children and Pets Away
Asbestos removal areas should remain free from unnecessary occupants.
Arrange for:
- Children to stay with family or friends
- Pets to be kept off-site or securely away from the work area
This helps maintain a safe environment throughout the removal process.
Follow Your Contractor’s Instructions
Every asbestos removal project is different.
Your contractor may provide specific instructions depending on:
- The type of asbestos
- Its location
- The size of the project
- Access requirements
Always follow their guidance rather than making assumptions.
Provide Clear Access
The removal team will need safe and unobstructed access to the affected area.
Ensure that:
- Driveways are clear
- Gates are unlocked
- Vehicles are moved if necessary
- Pathways are free from obstacles
Easy access allows equipment and waste containers to be positioned efficiently.
Avoid Disturbing Asbestos Materials
If asbestos has already been identified, do not attempt to:
- Break it
- Drill it
- Sand it
- Sweep it
- Pressure wash it
- Remove it yourself
Disturbing asbestos-containing materials may release hazardous fibres into the air.
Leave the material untouched until licensed professionals arrive.
Inform Household Members
Make sure everyone living in the home understands the removal schedule.
Explain:
- Which areas are restricted
- When contractors will arrive
- Whether temporary relocation is required
- Safety precautions to follow
Good communication helps avoid accidental entry into controlled areas.
Protect Valuable Items
Even if asbestos removal is carefully managed, construction work can generate dust in surrounding areas.
Consider covering or relocating:
- Artwork
- Antiques
- Important documents
- Valuable electronics
- Delicate furniture
Protecting valuable belongings provides additional peace of mind.
Plan for Temporary Relocation if Needed
Depending on the type and extent of asbestos removal, your contractor may recommend temporarily leaving the property.
This is more common for larger projects involving:
- Roofing
- Ceiling materials
- Extensive wall removal
- Large-scale renovations
Ask your contractor whether relocation is necessary for your situation.
Notify Neighbours (If Appropriate)
For larger removal projects, it may be courteous to let nearby neighbours know that licensed asbestos removal work has been scheduled.
Professional contractors follow strict safety procedures to prevent fibre release, but informing neighbours can help avoid unnecessary concern if they notice specialised equipment or work vehicles.
Prepare Utility Access
Some projects may require access to:
- Electricity
- Water
- Outdoor power points
Ensure these services are available unless your contractor advises otherwise.
Leave Safety Barriers in Place
During removal, contractors may install:
- Warning signs
- Temporary fencing
- Exclusion zones
- Plastic containment barriers
Do not remove or enter these restricted areas until the contractor confirms it is safe to do so.
Ask About Air Monitoring and Clearance Inspections
For some asbestos removal projects, independent air monitoring and clearance inspections may be recommended or required.
Ask your contractor:
- Whether air monitoring will be conducted
- If a clearance inspection is included
- When the area can be safely reoccupied
Understanding these procedures helps give homeowners confidence that the work has been completed safely.
Avoid Cleaning Before the Team Arrives
You may be tempted to vacuum or sweep around asbestos-containing materials before removal.
However, this is not recommended.
Household vacuum cleaners are generally not suitable for asbestos fibres, and sweeping may disturb the material.
Instead, leave the area as it is until the professionals arrive.
Choose a Licensed Asbestos Removal Company
The most important step is hiring an experienced and licensed asbestos removal contractor in NSW.
A professional team will:
- Follow Australian safety regulations
- Use specialised equipment
- Safely contain asbestos fibres
- Dispose of asbestos waste legally
- Thoroughly clean the work area
- Provide guidance throughout the process
Choosing a reputable company ensures the work is completed safely and in compliance with all applicable regulations.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home before an asbestos removal team arrives helps create a safer and more efficient work environment. By clearing access, removing personal belongings, keeping children and pets away, and following your contractor’s instructions, you can help the project proceed with minimal disruption.
Most importantly, never attempt to remove or disturb asbestos yourself. Always rely on qualified professionals who have the training, equipment, and experience to handle asbestos safely. With the right preparation and a trusted asbestos removal company, you can protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind throughout the entire removal process.