Asbestos Removal & Disposal in Queensland: What Homeowners Need to Know
- 1300 Demolition Admin
- Jan 31
- 3 min read
If your property was built before 1990, there’s a strong chance it may contain asbestos. In Queensland, asbestos removal is strictly regulated due to serious health risks, and handling it incorrectly can lead to heavy fines and long-term exposure dangers.
This guide explains how asbestos removal works in Queensland, who is legally allowed to remove it, and what homeowners in Moreton Bay, Brisbane Northside and the Sunshine Coast need to know before starting any demolition or renovation project.
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a fibrous material once commonly used in roofing, wall sheeting, fencing, insulation and flooring. When disturbed, asbestos fibres become airborne and can be inhaled, causing serious diseases such as:
Asbestosis
Lung cancer
Mesothelioma
Because these risks are severe, Queensland law tightly controls how asbestos is identified, removed and disposed of.
How Do I Know If My Property Contains Asbestos?
You cannot confirm asbestos by sight alone.
Common signs include:
Homes built before 1990
Fibro wall sheeting or corrugated roofing
Old vinyl flooring or cement products
The only way to confirm asbestos is through professional asbestos testing. Before any demolition or strip-out work, testing is strongly recommended.
Who Is Allowed to Remove Asbestos in Queensland?
Queensland regulations divide asbestos removal into two categories:
Non-Friable (Bonded) Asbestos
Small amounts may be removed by trained individuals, but licensed contractors are strongly recommended for safety and compliance.
Friable Asbestos
Friable asbestos must be removed by a licensed asbestos removal contractor. DIY removal is illegal.
Using an unlicensed contractor can result in:
Work stoppages
Significant fines
Project delays
Health risks to occupants and neighbours
How Is Asbestos Safely Removed?
Professional asbestos removal typically follows these steps:
Site inspection and asbestos identification
Establishing exclusion zones and safety controls
Controlled removal using approved techniques
Secure packaging and transport
Disposal at an approved asbestos waste facility
All work must comply with WorkSafe Queensland requirements.
Can Asbestos Be Removed During Demolition?
Yes — and in many cases, it must be.
For full house demolitions, asbestos is usually removed before or during demolition, depending on the structure and materials involved. This is why using a demolition contractor that also handles asbestos removal simplifies the process and avoids compliance issues.
How Much Does Asbestos Removal Cost in Queensland?
Costs vary depending on:
Amount of asbestos
Type (friable or non-friable)
Accessibility
Disposal requirements
Most projects require an on-site inspection before accurate pricing can be provided.
Areas We Commonly Service
Asbestos removal and disposal services are commonly provided across:
Moreton Bay
Brisbane Northside
Sunshine Coast
If your suburb isn’t listed, licensed contractors can confirm whether your location falls within their service area.
Related Services
If you’re planning demolition or renovation works, you may also need:
If you’re unsure which service applies to your project, professional advice can help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.
Need Advice or a Licensed Asbestos Removal Quote?
If you’re planning asbestos removal or demolition in Queensland, it’s important to speak with licensed professionals before starting work.
Call 1300 336 654 or request a fast, no-obligation quote to ensure your project is handled safely and in full compliance with Queensland regulations.
Local demolition contractors you can trust
1300 Demolition is a fully licensed and insured demolition contractor servicing Moreton Bay, Brisbane Northside and the Sunshine Coast.
We handle house demolition, commercial & industrial demolition, asbestos removal, internal strip outs and site preparation in full compliance with Queensland regulations.