Removing asbestos cement eaves lining yourself might seem straightforward — it's just a few sheets, after all — but in New Zealand the law is clear and the health risks are serious. For most homeowners, this work must be carried out by a licensed asbestos removalist, and getting it wrong can expose you, your family, and your neighbours to dangerous fibres. Here's what you need to know before you pick up a screwdriver.
Why Asbestos Cement Eaves Lining Is a Real Risk
Asbestos cement (sometimes called fibrous cement or AC sheet) was widely used in NZ homes built before the mid-1980s for eaves linings, soffits, wall cladding, and roofing. When the material is in good condition and left undisturbed, the risk is relatively low. However, the moment you start drilling, cutting, breaking, or even aggressively scrubbing it, you can release asbestos fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres is linked to serious diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer — conditions that can take decades to appear.
WorkSafe NZ is the primary regulator for asbestos in New Zealand and sets out strict rules under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016.
What NZ Law Actually Says About DIY Asbestos Removal
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, asbestos removal is divided into two classes:
| Class | Type of Work | Who Can Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Friable asbestos OR non-friable asbestos in poor condition (crumbling, damaged) | Licensed Class A removalist only |
| Class B | Non-friable (bonded) asbestos in good condition, area ≤10 m² | Licensed Class B removalist (or, in limited circumstances, a homeowner on their own home) |
Asbestos cement eaves lining is generally considered non-friable (bonded) asbestos — the fibres are locked into the cement matrix. However, whether you can legally remove it yourself depends on:
- The condition of the material — if it is cracked, crumbling, or deteriorated, it may be treated as Class A work, requiring a licensed specialist regardless of area.
- The total area — if the area of asbestos-containing material you are removing exceeds 10 m², it becomes Class A work and a licensed removalist is legally required.
- Your role — the owner-operator exemption applies only when you are working on your own home and doing the work yourself. It does not apply if you are doing the work commercially. Check with WorkSafe NZ for the current rules regarding landlord and owner-occupier situations, as conditions apply.
In practice, most eaves lining jobs on a typical NZ house will exceed 10 m² or involve material in questionable condition, which means a licensed specialist is required.
What Homeowners Can Legally Do Themselves (and How)
If your situation genuinely falls within the Class B owner-operator exemption — small area, good condition, your own home, no tenants — you must still follow strict controls set out by WorkSafe NZ:
- Do not use power tools — no angle grinders, circular saws, or drills. Use hand tools only to minimise fibre release.
- Wet the material thoroughly before and during removal to suppress dust.
- Wear the correct PPE — a P2 (or higher) respirator, disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection.
- Double-bag all waste in heavy-duty, clearly labelled asbestos waste bags.
- Dispose of waste legally — contact your local council to find an approved asbestos disposal facility. Do not put it in your general rubbish.
- Never use a vacuum cleaner unless it is a HEPA-rated unit designed for asbestos.
Even if you are legally permitted to do this work, the risks are significant. A mistake in technique can contaminate your home and property.
Identifying Asbestos Before You Start
You cannot tell whether a material contains asbestos just by looking at it. If your home was built or renovated before 1990, assume any fibrous cement sheeting may contain asbestos. The only way to confirm is to have a sample tested by an accredited laboratory. An asbestos assessor or inspector can take samples safely and provide a written report — this is strongly recommended before any removal work begins.
BRANZ has useful guidance on identifying asbestos-containing materials in older NZ homes.
Building Consent Considerations
Removing eaves lining may also trigger questions around building consent. Replacing like-for-like eaves lining is generally exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, but you should always confirm with your local council before starting work. If you are changing the cladding system or making structural alterations, consent may be required. Check MBIE Building Performance for guidance on consent exemptions.
When to Call a Professional
You should always hire a licensed asbestos removalist if:
- The total area of asbestos cement to be removed is more than 10 m²
- The material is damaged, cracked, crumbling, or in poor condition
- You are a landlord and the property has or has had tenants (note: Tenancy Services Healthy Homes standards also apply)
- You are unsure about the condition or extent of the asbestos
- You want peace of mind and a compliant clearance certificate
Licensed asbestos removal specialists carry the correct equipment, training, and insurance. They will also provide a clearance inspection confirming the area is safe after removal — something you cannot self-certify.
You can find qualified, licensed asbestos removal specialists in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz.
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