Between 1940 and the mid-1980s, Asbestos-containing material (ACM) was widely used in the construction industry. In fact, Asbestos was used in some form or manner in over 3,000 products throughout Australia. For properties built during this timeframe, it’s crucial to obtain an Asbestos audit.
Key Takeaways
- An asbestos audit helps identify whether asbestos-containing materials may be present in a property built during high-risk decades.
- Asbestos is not generally dangerous when left undisturbed and in good condition, but it becomes a serious health risk when fibres are released into the air.
- An audit is especially important before renovation, demolition, maintenance work, or when buying an older commercial property.
- Professional asbestos testing and auditing helps property owners manage risk safely and comply with relevant requirements.
- If asbestos is identified, an asbestos management plan may be required to guide safe handling, monitoring, or removal.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral, mined from the ground and known for its durability. Between the 1940s and 1980s, many of the products used in the Australian building industry contained asbestos due to its fire-resistant and effective insulating qualities.
Asbestos fibres are minuscule, approximately 50 to 200 times thinner than a human hair, and can be invisible to the naked eye. When asbestos or products containing asbestos are disturbed, these fibres are released into the air and can remain airborne for long periods of time.
Why is Asbestos Dangerous?
In the late 1980s, the production of products containing asbestos was halted in Australia due to the major health effects it was found to cause. Since 31 December 2003, the use of asbestos had been banned nationwide.
Common health effects that can arise from asbestos exposure include:
- Asbestosis (scarring of the lung tissue)
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma (cancer of the lung and stomach linings) and
- Pleural plaque (patches of thick scar tissue on the lining of the lung)
If you live or work in a building that contains asbestos materials, it is not dangerous so long as the materials are undamaged and undisturbed. It is only when asbestos products are worked with causing the fibres to be released into the air, that serious health risks arise. Each Australian state and territory has its own guidelines for working with these materials. If you’re going to work with asbestos, or need to remove materials containing asbestos, it is best to consult these guidelines before commencing work.
Why get an asbestos audit?
An asbestos audit provides a structured assessment of whether asbestos-containing materials are likely to be present in a property and where they may be located. For older commercial properties in particular, this is an important first step in identifying risk before any disturbance occurs.
An audit can help property owners, managers and buyers make safer, more informed decisions about maintenance, renovation works, tenancy planning and compliance obligations. It can also reduce the likelihood of accidental disturbance during routine building work or repairs.
If you are reviewing an older property more broadly, you may also find it helpful to read what to do if asbestos is found in your home.
When should you get an asbestos audit?
There are several situations where an asbestos audit is particularly important:
- Before renovation, demolition, or intrusive maintenance works
- When purchasing or leasing an older commercial building
- If records of past asbestos identification or management are unclear or unavailable
- If building materials show signs of deterioration or damage
- When a workplace or commercial property requires an asbestos register or management plan
In many cases, the best time to organise an asbestos audit is before any works begin, so decisions can be made safely and with the right information in place.
What if my property has Asbestos?
Inspect My Home have professional inspectors who are qualified to carry out asbestos testing and asbestos audits on commercial properties. If you are not sure whether your building contains asbestos, the team at Inspect My Home can assess the property, and, if needed, develop an asbestos management plan.
If asbestos-containing materials are present, the next step depends on their condition, location, and whether they are likely to be disturbed. In some cases, materials may be left in place and managed safely. In others, encapsulation, monitoring, or licensed removal may be the most appropriate course of action.
Professional assessment is important because asbestos risks are not always obvious from appearance alone. Disturbing suspect materials without proper advice can increase exposure risk significantly.
Get an Asbestos Audit
If you require an asbestos inspection report, get in contact with our friendly staff today on 1300 337 447 or book your inspection online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an asbestos audit?
An asbestos audit is an inspection carried out to identify suspected asbestos-containing materials within a property and assess their condition, location, and potential risk. It helps guide safe management and future decision-making.
Do I need an asbestos audit for an older property?
If the property was built or renovated during the decades when asbestos was commonly used, an audit is strongly recommended—especially before any renovation, demolition, or invasive maintenance work.
Is asbestos dangerous if it is not damaged?
Asbestos-containing materials are generally considered lower risk when they are in good condition and left undisturbed. The danger arises when fibres are released into the air through cutting, sanding, breakage, or deterioration.
What happens if asbestos is found during an audit?
If asbestos is identified, the next step may involve management, monitoring, encapsulation, or licensed removal depending on the material’s condition and how likely it is to be disturbed. An asbestos management plan may also be required.
Can asbestos be identified just by looking at it?
No. While some materials may be considered suspicious based on age and appearance, professional assessment and testing are needed to confirm whether asbestos is present.
Who can carry out an asbestos audit?
Qualified professionals with the appropriate training and experience in asbestos identification and assessment should carry out asbestos audits and testing. This ensures the risks are assessed correctly and safely.
