Property maintenance comes with many to-dos for many Auckland homeowners, from repairs to renovations. However, one hidden issue should never be ignored for those living in homes built before the 1990s: asbestos.
It’s not always visible. It often goes undetected. But when disturbed, it can put families at serious risk. Asbestos was once widely used in construction due to its durability and fire resistance. Today, it’s a known health hazard and is still present in thousands of older homes across Auckland.
This is where Union Demolition steps in. With licensed professionals, a proven track record, and a deep understanding of safety regulations, they offer safe, certified asbestos removal in Auckland that homeowners can rely on. Whether renovating, buying, or just wanting peace of mind, here’s what you need to know.
Before diving into removal, it helps to understand what asbestos actually is and why it’s still such a concern.
Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals of fine, durable fibres. Throughout the mid-20th century, it was used in construction materials because it resisted heat, fire, and corrosion.
In New Zealand, asbestos was commonly used up until the late 1980s in homes, schools, and commercial buildings. While its use has since been banned, materials containing asbestos remain in many existing structures often in walls, roofs, ceilings, pipes, and cladding.
If your house was built before 1990, there’s a fair chance it may contain asbestos in some form. Common areas include:
Unfortunately, the fibres aren’t always easy to spot. Some materials look completely normal, so professional testing is very important.
The real danger comes when asbestos fibres become airborne. This can happen during renovations, demolition, or even minor repairs. Once inhaled, these fibres can settle in the lungs and lead to serious long-term health issues, including:
Symptoms often don’t appear for decades, making early detection and prevention critical.
Most homeowners don’t realise there’s asbestos present until a builder, inspector, or tradesperson flags it during a job. But there are a few signs you can look out for.
If your home was built or renovated before the 1990s, there’s a higher chance that asbestos-containing materials were used. This applies across many Auckland suburbs, particularly in older villas and state homes.
Corrugated roofing sheets, brittle wall panels, and textured ceiling coatings are all worth investigating. If you’re unsure, avoid disturbing them.
It might be tempting to scrape a sample yourself and send it away for testing. Don’t. Disturbing asbestos materials without the proper containment measures is risky for you, your family, and anyone nearby. Instead, contact a licensed asbestos assessor for proper testing using safe, controlled procedures.
Once asbestos is confirmed, the removal process must be handled carefully and legally. Union Demolition follows a proven, step-by-step system designed to protect people and property.
A licensed assessor inspects the site, identifies affected areas, and takes samples to determine the type and level of contamination. Based on the results, a removal plan is developed.
Union Demolition handles all compliance paperwork, including WorkSafe NZ notifications where required. The team prepares a custom removal strategy based on site access, material type, and safety requirements.
Before removal begins, the area is sealed off with barriers and signage. Negative air pressure machines and HEPA filters are used to prevent fibre escape. In some cases, entire rooms may be closed off for safe handling.
Trained technicians remove the asbestos-containing materials using industry-approved tools and protective gear. All waste is double-bagged, sealed, and transported to an approved disposal facility. Decontamination procedures are followed on exit.
Once removal is complete, an independent assessor conducts air monitoring and a clearance inspection. The space can be reoccupied only when results show that the area is safe and fibre-free.
Union Demolition provides full documentation so homeowners have written proof of compliance and safety.
There are plenty of providers offering asbestos removal and abatemnet in Auckland. So why do property owners, managers, and contractors turn to Union Demolition?
The team holds all necessary licences under New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations. Every removal is carried out according to national safety standards no shortcuts, no exceptions.
Union Demolition has experience working in all types of Auckland properties, from family homes to multi-unit dwellings. They understand how to work around families, manage timelines, and minimise disruption.
This isn’t a job that allows for compromise. Union Demolition uses strict containment protocols, daily site checks, and detailed documentation for every job. Their compliance history and customer feedback reflect their commitment to health and safety.
Many homeowners planning renovations or rebuilds also need demolition services. Union Demolition offers both, meaning the asbestos removal can be fully integrated into the demolition plan. This reduces cost, time, and the need to juggle multiple contractors.
Asbestos removal in New Zealand is heavily regulated, and for good reason.
WorkSafe NZ requires that licensed professionals handle any removal of more than 10m² of non-friable asbestos (or any amount of friable asbestos). Attempting DIY removal can lead to hefty fines and serious health consequences.
If you own the property, you are legally responsible for ensuring safe removal. Even if a builder or tradesperson does work, the liability can fall back on you if asbestos is mishandled. That’s why having a trusted provider like Union Demolition matters.
Handling asbestos correctly isn’t just about meeting regulations. It’s also about creating a safer, healthier home environment for you and your family.
Once asbestos materials are gone, the risk of airborne fibres disappears. This can be especially important for families with young children, elderly relatives, or anyone with respiratory conditions.
Knowing your home is asbestos-free removes a significant source of anxiety. It also makes future renovations simpler and safer.
Buyers are increasingly aware of asbestos risks. A clean health bill backed by certified documentation adds real value during resale or rental negotiations.
Whether you suspect asbestos in your home or want peace of mind before starting a renovation, Union Demolition offers free initial consultations across Auckland.
Their team will:
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