Asbestos is hazardous but it can be managed safely especially in homes built prior to mid 1980. Follow these three steps for managing materials containing asbestos (MCAs) in your home.

Asbestos in the home

Step 1: Identify where MCAs may be in your home

When was your home built?

If your house built before 1985, many houses built prior to mid 1980 were constructed using asbestos products. If your house was built after 1985 it is unlikely to contain MCAs. If in doubt, assume that materials DO contain asbestos. Common Location of MCAs: eaves, garage/shed, bathroom, laundry, kitchen, wardrobe, roof etc.

Step 2: Assess the risk

Visually check the condition of the MCA – is it cracked, broken?

If it’s in good condition and left undisturbed, it does not pose a health risk.
If you suspect it is not in good condition, arrange for appropriate removal by a qualified and licensed person.

Step 3: Manage Safely

Make sure you remember to:

Keep an eye on MCAs to make sure they remain in good condition.
Make sure the removal of the MCA by a qualified and licensed person, when renovating or doing home repairs. Inform tradespeople working in your home of the location of any possible MCAs. Contact a qualified person if you decide to obtain a professional asbestos report on MCAs in your home.