Can I remove asbestos myself in Victoria?

The limits

You may remove non-friable (bonded) asbestos without a licence only if both of these are true:

• The total area is 10 m² or less. That's roughly one wall of a small bedroom, a few metres of eaves, or two or three fence panels.
• The removal work takes no more than one hour in any seven-day period.

Anything over either limit is licensed work. It needs a WorkSafe Victoria Class B licence or higher for bonded asbestos.

Friable asbestos: never

Friable asbestos must only be removed by a Class A licence holder, in any amount. That includes:

• Sprayed and textured ceilings that test positive
• Pipe lagging and heater insulation
• Sheet vinyl with a friable backing
• Bonded material that has been burnt or crushed until it crumbles

If you're not sure whether material is friable, have it tested before touching it.

If you remove a small amount yourself

The minimum for a small bonded job:

1. Test it first so you know what you're dealing with.
2. Protect yourself. A correctly fitted P2 (or better) respirator and disposable coveralls.
3. Keep it wet with a fine water spray. Never use power tools, sanding, high-pressure water or a broom.
4. Remove it whole. Unscrew sheets rather than breaking them.
5. Double-wrap it in heavy plastic sheeting, tape it and label it "Asbestos".
6. Clean up with wet wipes, not a household vacuum.
7. Dispose of it legally. In Greater Bendigo, that's Eaglehawk Landfill's domestic drop-off with the City's application form. See asbestos disposal in Bendigo.

When to use a licensed removalist anyway

• Height. Eaves, roofs and anything that needs a ladder.
• Damage. Broken, weathered or storm-damaged material.
• Occupants. Children, older people or anyone with a lung condition in the house.
• Paperwork. A buyer, builder or insurer wants a clearance certificate.
• Uncertainty. You're not sure how much there is.

DIY asbestos removal: common questions