In most cases, no — removing asbestos guttering yourself is not recommended and, depending on the quantity and condition of the material, may be illegal without a licensed asbestos removalist. Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) were widely used in New Zealand homes built before 1990, including in guttering, downpipes, and spouting. Before you touch anything, it pays to understand the rules and the risks.
Why Asbestos Guttering Is a Serious Health Risk
Asbestos fibres, when disturbed, become airborne and can be inhaled deep into the lungs. Long-term exposure is linked to serious diseases including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer — all of which can take decades to develop. Guttering is often friable (crumbly) or becomes so with age, weathering, and impact, which makes it particularly hazardous to handle. Even a small amount of fibre release during removal can pose a risk to you, your family, and your neighbours.
WorkSafe NZ is the primary regulator for asbestos in New Zealand and provides detailed guidance on safe handling and legal obligations.
What NZ Law Says About Asbestos Removal
The Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 set out clear rules for asbestos removal in New Zealand. Here's what you need to know:
- Class A licensed removalist required: Any removal of friable asbestos (material that can be crumbled by hand) must be carried out by a Class A licensed asbestos removalist.
- Class B licensed removalist required: Removal of non-friable asbestos (bonded, hard material) in quantities greater than 10 square metres must be done by a Class B licensed removalist (or Class A).
- Homeowner exemption (under 10 m²): A homeowner may remove non-friable asbestos from their own home if the total area is less than 10 square metres — but this is a narrow exemption and comes with strict conditions.
Asbestos guttering can be either friable or non-friable depending on its age and condition. If it is weathered, cracked, or crumbling, it is likely friable — meaning a Class A licensed removalist is legally required, regardless of quantity.
Always check with WorkSafe NZ or a licensed asbestos assessor before making any assumptions about the condition of your guttering.
How to Tell If Your Guttering Contains Asbestos
You cannot identify asbestos by sight alone. If your home was built or renovated before 1990, assume any cement-based guttering or spouting may contain asbestos until proven otherwise. The only reliable way to confirm is to have a sample tested by an accredited laboratory. A licensed asbestos assessor can take samples safely and arrange testing — do not attempt to sample it yourself without proper training and PPE.
What Happens If You Remove It Yourself Illegally?
Removing asbestos without the required licence is a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and associated regulations. Penalties can include significant fines for individuals. Beyond the legal risk, improper removal can contaminate your property, neighbouring properties, and stormwater systems — creating long-term liability. Disposal of asbestos waste is also strictly regulated; it must go to an approved landfill that accepts hazardous waste, not your kerbside bin or skip.
The Safe, Legal Process for Asbestos Guttering Removal
If you engage a licensed specialist, here is what the process typically involves:
| Step | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Licensed assessor inspects and samples material |
| Removal plan | Removalist prepares a safe work method statement |
| Containment | Area is sealed off; neighbours notified if required |
| Removal | Material wetted down and carefully removed intact |
| Disposal | Double-bagged, labelled, and taken to approved landfill |
| Clearance | Independent clearance inspection confirms site is safe |
BRANZ has useful technical resources on asbestos in older New Zealand homes, including common locations and material types.
Do You Need a Building Consent?
Replacing guttering is generally exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, but you should confirm this with your local council before starting work. The asbestos removal itself is governed by WorkSafe regulations, not the Building Code, but both sets of rules may apply to your project. Visit MBIE Building Performance for guidance on consent exemptions.
If the Area Is Under 10 m² and Non-Friable: Strict DIY Conditions
If you genuinely fall within the homeowner exemption (non-friable, under 10 m², your own home), you must still:
- Never dry-sand, grind, drill, or use power tools on asbestos material
- Wet the material thoroughly before and during removal
- Wear a P2 respirator (not a dust mask), disposable coveralls, and gloves
- Double-bag waste in heavy-duty polythene bags, label clearly as asbestos waste
- Dispose of at an approved hazardous waste facility — contact your local council for the nearest site
- Shower and bag your clothing immediately after
Even within this exemption, getting a professional to do it is strongly advisable. The cost of proper removal is modest compared to the health risks.
When to Call a Professional
You should always call a licensed asbestos removalist if:
- The guttering is cracked, crumbling, or weathered (likely friable)
- The total area exceeds 10 square metres
- You are unsure of the material's condition or asbestos content
- You have any respiratory conditions or vulnerable people in the household
- You want peace of mind and a clearance certificate
You can find licensed asbestos removal specialists in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz. Always ask to see their WorkSafe licence before work begins.
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