Why Can’t I Just Remove Asbestos Myself?
You can remove asbestos yourself at home in limited circumstances, but in Western Australia it is strictly restricted to non-friable (bonded) asbestos and only up to 10m² in total area. Even within that limit, it’s not a simple DIY job - it requires careful planning, the right protective equipment, and a clear understanding of how to avoid creating dust or contamination.
If you are undertaking this type of work, you still need to follow proper safety procedures. That includes using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), controlling dust generation, avoiding breaking or grinding materials, and ensuring waste is handled and wrapped correctly so fibres are not released during removal or transport.
What many people don’t realise is that the risk is not just in the removal itself, it’s in the clean-up. Asbestos fibres are microscopic, and once they become airborne or settle as dust, they can remain in the environment if not properly controlled. In fact, decontamination and clean-down can often take longer than the actual removal work, even on small jobs.
This is why professional asbestos removal uses controlled methods such as wetting materials, containment procedures, specialised vacuum systems, and decontamination zones. These controls are designed to prevent fibres from spreading during and after the work - something that is very difficult to achieve without training and equipment.
There is also a disposal requirement that is often overlooked. Most local government waste facilities in WA will only accept asbestos waste under strict conditions, and in many cases you may be required to present documentation or use approved disposal processes. Asbestos must also be buried promptly and handled in a way that prevents environmental contamination, which is managed under regulated landfill procedures.
Where asbestos quantities exceed the 10m² threshold, or where materials are damaged, friable, or difficult to access, a licensed asbestos removalist must be engaged under WA work health and safety requirements enforced by WorkSafe WA. This ensures proper containment, removal controls, and clearance processes are followed.
Ultimately, asbestos removal is far more than simply taking material off a wall or roof. The real risk comes from what you can’t see - airborne fibres and residual dust- which is why proper controls are so important in protecting both occupants and the wider environment.
If you are unsure whether your situation can be safely managed or requires licensed removal, it is always best to seek advice before starting work. We can help guide you through the safest and most compliant option for your property.