Asbestos & Demolition: What Melbourne Homeowners Should Know

Asbestos was used extensively in Australian housing until the late 1980s — in eaves, wet area walls, fences, roofing and garage sheeting. Building age is a reason to arrange assessment, not proof that a specific material contains asbestos. Do not identify it by appearance alone.

The rules in Victoria

Strict safety and licensing requirements apply to asbestos removal. WorkSafe Victoria notes that unlicensed removal is allowed only in limited circumstances; a quantity threshold alone is not a complete permission to do the work. Use a licensed team and confirm the notifications and controls required for the assessed scope.

Asbestos likely to be disturbed must be identified and managed before demolition, with removal planned in accordance with WorkSafe guidance. As part of our quoting process, our team will arrange an asbestos assessment and, where required, our own licensed asbestos team will carry out the removal.

What it means for your budget

Asbestos costs depend on the assessed material, extent, access and controls. Ask whether assessment, confirmed removal, disposal and any required clearance are included. Unknown or inaccessible materials should be addressed explicitly rather than hidden behind a general allowance.

When we quote your project, we'll tell you clearly whether asbestos assessment and removal is included, provisional, or excluded from the price.