Dealing with hazardous materials when building or renovating

Learn how to safely renovate older homes in NSW, manage asbestos and other hazards, and find contacts for health, safety and environmental advice.

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Safe working practices for renovators

There are important risks to consider when renovating, especially for older homes. Hazardous materials that could become exposed during renovations include:

asbestos
lead (in some paints)
treated timber
volatile compounds and
powdered materials.

Help protect the health of your household and neighbours by becoming informed on hazardous materials and safe practices when renovating. Certain activities should only be carried out by a trained professional.

Hazardous materials

Visit DIY Safe for a list of potentially hazardous materials in buildings, and tips for safe renovation practices.

Asbestos and its removal

Inspecting, removing and disposing of asbestos is dangerous and complicated. This should always be carried out by professionals who have completed the necessary training.

Find out more about loose-fill asbestos insulation.

Bonded asbestos

Bonded asbestos is when asbestos fibres are bonded to another material, such as a cement or resin binder. A Safework NSW licence is needed to remove 10 square metres or more of bonded asbestos.

Resources

Asbestos awareness provides renovators with access to many existing sources of information about how to deal safely with asbestos products. Visit the Asbestos Awareness website for more information.

Environment and Heritage

Call: (02) 9995 5000 (switch)

TTY: (02) 9211 4723 (for hearing-impaired callers)

59-61 Goulburn Street, Sydney

PO Box A290, Sydney South NSW 1232

Office of Local Government

For information on collection, storage, transport and disposal of asbestos waste

Office of Local Government

Call: (02) 4428 4100

5 O’Keefe Avenue

Nowra NSW 2541

NSW Health