FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ASBESTOS REMOVAL | ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT
Asbestos is a naturally occurring material made up of fine fibres. It was widely used in construction because of its strength, heat resistance, and durability.
While useful, asbestos becomes dangerous when fibres are disturbed and released into the air. Because of this, it must be handled carefully and managed by trained professionals.
FREQUENTLY ASKED ASBESTOS QUESTIONS
Asbestos was widely used in building materials because it is strong, heat-resistant, and durable.
Properties built before 2000 are more likely to contain asbestos in materials such as roofing, cladding, and insulation.
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
- Vinyl flooring
- Cladding, including baseboards
- Electrical meter board
- Soffits
- Roofing panels, e.g. ‘Super Six’
- Hot water cupboard lining
- Ceiling tiles
- Textured ceiling
- Fireplace surrounding
- Fence panels
- Loose fill insulation
COMMERICAL/INDUSTRIAL PROPERTIES
- Roof ventilators
- ‘Super Six’ or ‘Super Eight’ roof sheeting
- Gutters and downpipes
- Skylight and manhole frames
- Asbestos cement vent pipe, Rain heads and capping
- Ceiling tiles, textured ceiling and spray coatings
- ‘Super Six’, ‘Super Eight’, Wall Cladding
- Vinyl floor tiles or sheet vinyl floor coverings
- Textiles e.g.: in the fuse holders, fire blankets
- Backing to the switchboard and internal lining
You can find information on where asbestos can be found via the WorkSafe website https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/asbestos
The safest way to confirm asbestos is through a qualified survey or testing.
If your building was constructed before 2000, there is a high likelihood asbestos-containing materials are present.
Avoid disturbing suspected materials proper assessment is key.
You can drop off a sample for testing, or call us to arrange a sample.
Costs depend on the size of the area, type of material, and level of risk involved.
Every job is different, so the most accurate way to price removal is through a site assessment. Planning early helps avoid unexpected costs.
Asbestos becomes dangerous when fibres are disturbed and released into the air.
When handled by licensed professionals using the correct controls, it is a safe and controlled process.
Sometimes — but only in very limited situations, and it is generally not recommended. Improper handling can spread fibres and create serious health risks.
In New Zealand, homeowners can legally remove small amounts of non‑friable asbestos themselves, but only if:
- The total area is under 10m²
- The asbestos is non‑friable (Class B)
You cannot remove asbestos yourself if:
- The asbestos is friable (Class A)
- The area exceeds 10m²
- You involve anyone else in the work
Because asbestos fibres can easily become airborne and spread, removal should be handled by licensed removalists wherever possible to keep you, your family, and your home safe.
No — the type of licence held determines what asbestos can be removed.
- Class A licence holders can remove both friable (Class A) and non‑friable (Class B) asbestos
- Class B licence holders can only remove non‑friable (Class B) asbestos
Because friable asbestos carries a higher risk, it requires more stringent controls and higher-level licensing.
If asbestos is identified, it must be safely removed before other work continues.
This ensures the site is safe and compliant before moving to the next stage.
Asbestos must be disposed of at approved facilities in line with strict regulations—it can’t be burned, buried, or dumped.
Burning asbestos doesn’t destroy it; it releases harmful fibres into the air and can contaminate surrounding areas. Illegal dumping or burial can also lead to significant penalties.
Most disposal sites don’t accept public drop‑offs, and often require a licensed removalist and compliant transport. Some commercial services can handle asbestos waste by arrangement, but costs for collection and disposal can be high.
Yes — in most cases, you will not be able to remain on site until the work is completed and the area is cleared.
Re-entry is only allowed once an independent licensed assessor confirms it is safe.
In the event of asbestos contamination, all soft items (e.g. carpets, curtains, sofas, bedding etc.) that can absorb fibres need to be destroyed. They generally can’t be cleaned, so they immediately become contaminated waste.
Hard objects (e.g. chairs, tables, televisions, etc.) can be decontaminated and cleared for use by a licensed assessor
The Licensed Asbestos Assessor will identify to you the items that will need to be removed as contaminated and what items the removalists will be able to decontaminate for you to be able to reuse and keep.
Licensed asbestos removalists must carry out removal work and follow strict procedures.
This ensures the process is safe, compliant, and properly managed.
The Agency is happy to provide a free quote
Yes — most projects require:
- an asbestos survey (before work begins)
- a management plan (if asbestos is present)
These ensure risks are identified and managed correctly.
No — clearance must be completed by an independent licensed assessor.
This ensures the process is unbiased and meets regulatory requirements.
Air monitoring tests for airborne asbestos fibres during removal.
It is required for higher-risk work e.g. Class A and provides assurance that the site remains safe.
This is to be undertaken by a licensed Assessor or competent independent person from the removalist.
Class A requires to always have air monitoring during the removal and clearance.
Class B does not require Air monitoring however it is best practise to have these if you are in a public space, your property is close to footpaths/sidewalks and if you are neighbouring a school.
This depends on the environment and level of risk.
DEMOLITION | DECONSTRUCTION
Demolition is the controlled removal of buildings or structures. This can range from partial removal through to complete site clearance.
It involves careful planning, safety management, and the right equipment to ensure the work is carried out safely and efficiently.
Deconstruction is a more careful approach to demolition, where materials are taken apart piece by piece to allow for reuse or recycling.
This method reduces waste and supports more sustainable outcomes by salvaging valuable materials where possible.
FREQUENTLY ASKED DEMOLITION & DECONSTRUCTION QUESTIONS
In many cases, consent is not required for smaller standalone structures. However, consent may be needed for larger or more complex buildings, especially if they are multi-level or connected to other structures.
It’s important to check early, as requirements can vary. We can help guide you through what is needed for your specific project.
Yes, you are required to have an Asbestos and Demolition Refurbishment Survey. Client/homeowner is responsible for obtaining the survey. A demolition contractor can at an additional charge arrange the Asbestos and Demolition Refurbishment Survey for the client.
The timeframe depends on the size of the structure, site conditions, and the complexity of the project.
Smaller residential jobs can be completed quickly, while larger or more complex sites may take longer due to planning, safety requirements, and coordination. A clear programme helps keep everything running smoothly.
Costs vary depending on the size of the building, materials involved, access to the site, and any hazards such as asbestos.
Every project is different, so the best way to get an accurate cost is through a site assessment. Proper planning helps avoid unexpected costs.
Before any work begins, the site is carefully assessed and prepared. This typically includes:
- identifying hazards such as asbestos
- planning safe removal methods
- organising access and services
- setting up safety controls
This ensures the project runs safely and efficiently from the start.
Yes — services such as power, gas, and water usually need to be safely disconnected before demolition begins.
We can guide you through what needs to be arranged and when, so there are no delays.
Materials are removed and disposed of safely. Where possible, we separate and recover materials such as concrete or metals as part of the process.
Options for recycling or reuse can be explored depending on the project and budget.
Some materials can be reused or repurposed, while others must be disposed of.
Recycling depends on the condition of the materials. For example:
- Plastic, Vinyl, Fibre Glass, Pink Batts and MDF are not able to be recycled.
- Ceramic, Bricks and Tile is hard filled which is generally used as a non-porous compacting agent or back fill for small home projects.
- Carpet tiles cannot be recycled unless they are 100% wool.
- Timber is allowed to be recycled however it cannot be covered in glue, have nails or jib.
We aim to maximise recovery where practical.
Yes — when planned and managed correctly, demolition is a controlled and safe process.
We use proper safety systems, exclusion zones, and monitoring to ensure surrounding properties and people are protected throughout the work.
If asbestos is identified, it must be safely removed before demolition continues.
In most cases, no but this is dependant on the type of project being undertaken.
Demolition sites need to be secured for safety reasons.
You’ll be guided on what to expect and when access can safely return once works are complete.
BULK WORKS | CIVIL WORKS
Bulk works involve moving and shaping large volumes of material to prepare a site for construction.
This includes excavation, earthworks, levelling, and site preparation — forming the foundation for what comes next.
Civil works support infrastructure and services within a project, including drainage, roading, and utilities.
While often large in scale, civil works play a supporting role in ensuring sites function safely and effectively.
FREQUENTLY ASKED CIVIL & BULK WORKS QUESTIONS
Depending on the scope of work, resource consent or permits may be required.
This can vary based on the type of work, site conditions, and local council requirements. It’s important to check early so the project can proceed without delays.
Bulk works typically include:
- excavation and earthworks
- site preparation and levelling
- material removal and placement
- preparing land for building
These works form the foundation for everything that follows.
The timeframe depends on site size, ground conditions, and the complexity of the project.
Weather, access, and unforeseen conditions can affect timing, but with proper planning, works can be delivered efficiently.
Costs vary based on:
- the volume of material being moved
- site access and conditions
- equipment and resources required
Every job is different, so a site assessment is the best way to get an accurate cost.
Yes — weather can impact activities such as excavation, earthworks, and drainage.
Rain or poor ground conditions may slow progress, but work can often continue safely with the right planning and approach.
Traffic management depends on the location and nature of the project.
If work affects public roads or access ways, traffic management may be required as part of council conditions or site safety planning.
Asbestos is sometimes found during bulk works, especially in older infrastructure or services, so the likelihood is yes, it is asbestos.
With over 80% of New Zealand’s water mains being asbestos pipe, the chances are high. We are happy to provide support or a site inspection if required.
If asbestos is identified, work must stop, the area secured, and the material safely assessed and removed by a specialised removalist.
Stop work immediately and secure the area.
Avoid disturbing the material and contact a professional to assess the situation. Acting quickly helps prevent contamination and keeps everyone safe.
Yes — bulk works must comply with council and environmental requirements.
These can include rules around sediment control, drainage, and site management to protect surrounding land and waterways.
Bulk works and civil works often go hand in hand.
Bulk works prepare the site, while civil works install the infrastructure needed to support the development. Together, they ensure the site is ready for construction and long-term use.
In many cases, yes — especially where infrastructure or services are involved.
Council requirements will vary depending on the project, so it’s important to confirm what approvals are needed before work begins.
Civil works can include:
- drainage and stormwater systems
- underground services
- accessways and roading
- foundation and ground support
The scope depends on the size and needs of the project.
Yes — experienced teams can plan and deliver works across challenging environments.
With the right approach, equipment, and planning, bulk works can be completed safely even in complex or restricted sites.
Site preparation involves preparing land so construction can begin safely and efficiently.
This includes clearing, levelling, and ensuring the ground is stable and ready for the next stage of work.
Yes — civil works are often coordinated alongside bulk works and other site activities.
With proper planning, different stages can run together to improve efficiency and reduce overall project time.
MAIN CONTRACTOR
A main contractor takes full responsibility for delivering a project from start to finish.
This includes managing subcontractors, coordinating all stages of work, and ensuring everything is completed safely, efficiently, and to the required standard.
By having one team oversee the entire project, it creates clear accountability, better communication, and more controlled outcomes from tender through to final handover.
FREQUENTLY ASKED CIVIL & BULK WORKS QUESTIONS
A main contractor takes full responsibility for delivering a project from start to finish.
This includes managing subcontractors, coordinating all stages of work, and ensuring everything is completed safely, efficiently, and to the required standard.
For larger or more complex projects, yes.
A main contractor provides structure, oversight, and accountability — so you are not managing multiple contractors yourself. This helps reduce risk and keeps the project running smoothly.
This means managing the project from initial planning and pricing through to final completion.
It includes coordination of trades, scheduling, and ensuring everything is delivered correctly and ready for handover at the end.
Using a main contractor gives you:
- one point of responsibility
- better coordination between trades
- clearer communication
- more controlled timelines and outcomes
This creates a more efficient and reliable project overall.
Subcontractors are selected, coordinated, and managed as part of the overall project delivery.
This ensures all work is aligned, completed to standard, and delivered safely within the agreed programme.
Projects are managed through clear planning, scheduling, and ongoing communication.
By maintaining oversight at every stage, issues can be addressed early and progress stays consistent.
Yes — we regularly deliver projects that include asbestos removal, demolition, and bulk works as part of the overall scope.
This allows for better coordination, fewer delays, and a more seamless delivery from start to finish.
The main contractor is responsible for ensuring health and safety is managed across the entire site.
This includes setting standards, monitoring work, and ensuring all parties operate safely and in line with requirements.
This depends on your preference.
Some clients prefer regular involvement, while others rely on us to manage the process. Either way, you’ll have clear communication and visibility throughout the project.
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