In most cases, no — you should not remove asbestos cement soffit boards yourself. While New Zealand law does allow homeowners to remove small amounts of non-friable asbestos from their own homes under certain conditions, the risks are serious, the rules are strict, and getting it wrong can endanger your family, neighbours, and anyone who works on your property in the future. Read on to understand exactly what the law says, what the health risks are, and when you absolutely must call a licensed professional.
What Are Asbestos Cement Soffit Boards?
Asbestos cement (AC) sheeting was widely used in New Zealand homes and carports built before the late 1980s. Soffit boards — the flat panels on the underside of your carport roof overhang — were a very common application. AC sheeting is considered non-friable asbestos, meaning the fibres are bound into the cement matrix and are less likely to become airborne under normal conditions. However, cutting, drilling, sanding, breaking, or rough handling can release dangerous respirable fibres.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos fibres, once inhaled, can cause serious and potentially fatal diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. These diseases can take 20–40 years to develop, so there is no immediate warning sign after exposure. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. WorkSafe NZ provides detailed guidance on asbestos health risks and is the key regulatory authority for asbestos work in New Zealand.
What Does NZ Law Actually Say?
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, asbestos removal work is classified and regulated as follows:
| Class | Type of Work | Who Can Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Friable asbestos, or non-friable asbestos >10 m² | Licensed Class A removalist only |
| Class B | Non-friable asbestos ≤10 m² | Licensed Class B (or A) removalist |
| Owner-occupier exemption | Non-friable, own home, ≤10 m² | Homeowner (with strict conditions) |
The owner-occupier exemption allows a homeowner to remove up to 10 m² of non-friable asbestos from their own home without a licence — but only if:
- You own and live in the property (not a rental or investment property)
- The asbestos is non-friable (intact AC sheeting, not crumbling or damaged)
- You follow all safe work practices required by the regulations
- You arrange compliant disposal at an approved facility
If your soffit boards total more than 10 m², or if they are damaged, crumbling, or need cutting, a licensed removalist is legally required. Always check with WorkSafe NZ and your local council if you are unsure about your specific situation.
Practical Risks Even If You're Legally Allowed
Even if you technically fall within the owner-occupier exemption, consider these practical realities:
- Soffit boards are often awkward to remove without breaking or cracking them, which releases fibres
- You need proper PPE including a P2 or P3 respirator (not a dust mask), disposable coveralls, and gloves
- Boards must be wetted down before and during removal to suppress dust
- Waste must be double-bagged in heavy-duty polythene, labelled correctly, and taken to an approved disposal site — not your kerbside bin
- You must not use power tools (angle grinders, circular saws) on AC sheeting
- Neighbouring properties and people nearby must be protected
Making a mistake doesn't just risk your own health — it can contaminate your property and create a costly remediation problem for future owners.
Do You Need a Building Consent?
Removing soffit boards may also involve structural or weathertightness considerations under the NZ Building Code (particularly clauses E2 External Moisture and E3 Internal Moisture). Some soffit removal and replacement work may be exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, but this depends on the scope of work. Always confirm with your local council before starting. You can find general guidance at MBIE Building Performance.
Identifying Asbestos Before You Start
Not all old soffit boards contain asbestos — but you cannot tell by looking. The only way to confirm is through laboratory testing by an accredited analyst. Many licensed asbestos assessors offer sampling services. Do not attempt to take a sample yourself without following safe work procedures.
When to Call a Professional
You should hire a licensed asbestos removalist if:
- The total area of soffit boards exceeds 10 m²
- The boards are damaged, crumbling, or weathered
- The property is a rental or you don't live there
- You are not confident you can remove the boards without breaking them
- You want peace of mind and a clearance certificate for your records
A licensed Class B removalist will handle safe removal, disposal, and can provide documentation that the work was done correctly — which is valuable if you ever sell the property. You can find qualified asbestos removal specialists in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz.
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