Removing old fibrolite cladding from a New Zealand home is not a straightforward DIY job — and in many cases, it is not legally one at all. Fibrolite (fibre-cement sheet) manufactured before the mid-1980s very commonly contains asbestos, which makes identification and safe handling absolutely essential before you touch a single sheet. Here is what every homeowner needs to know before starting this project.
What Is Fibrolite and Why Does Asbestos Matter?
Fibrolite is a brand name that became a generic term for compressed fibre-cement cladding sheets widely used on New Zealand homes from the 1940s through to the 1980s. Sheets produced during this era frequently contained chrysotile (white) asbestos as a reinforcing fibre. When disturbed, cut, or broken, asbestos-containing material (ACM) releases microscopic fibres that can cause serious lung diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis, often decades after exposure.
New Zealand's workplace safety legislation, administered by WorkSafe NZ, sets strict rules around asbestos identification, removal, and disposal. These rules apply to homeowners as well as tradespeople.
Step 1 — Assume It Contains Asbestos Until Proven Otherwise
If your home was built or clad before 1990, treat the fibrolite as asbestos-containing material until a sample has been tested by an accredited laboratory. Do not sand, drill, cut, or pressure-wash the sheets before testing — these actions release fibres.
You can arrange asbestos sampling and testing through a licensed asbestos assessor or demolition contractor. A small number of intact samples are taken carefully and sent to an IANZ-accredited lab for analysis. This is a relatively low-cost step that could save your health and significant legal trouble.
Step 2 — Understand the Legal Requirements
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, asbestos removal work is divided into two classes:
| Class | Type of Work | Who Can Do It |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Friable asbestos or non-friable ACM that will be disturbed (e.g. removal of bonded sheets) | Licensed Class A asbestos removalist only |
| Class B | Non-friable ACM, less than 10 m² total | Licensed Class B removalist (or homeowner on their own home — see below) |
Important: Even if you are a homeowner working on your own home, WorkSafe guidance strongly recommends engaging a licensed removalist for any asbestos removal. For quantities over 10 m² of non-friable ACM — which most full house re-clads will exceed — a licensed Class A or Class B removalist is legally required. Check the current regulations and your specific situation with WorkSafe NZ before proceeding.
Step 3 — Check Whether a Building Consent Is Required
Removing and replacing exterior cladding may require a building consent under the NZ Building Code, particularly if the work affects weathertightness (Clause E2) or the structural envelope. Some straightforward like-for-like replacements may qualify as Schedule 1 exempt work, but this is not guaranteed. Always confirm with your local council before starting. Work on the structural or weathertight envelope may also need to be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP).
Step 4 — Safe Removal Procedure (If Legally Permitted)
If the material has tested negative for asbestos, or you are working with a licensed removalist on ACM, the general removal process involves:
- Wet the sheets before and during removal to suppress dust
- Use hand tools only — no angle grinders, circular saws, or power sanders
- Wear appropriate PPE: P2 respirator (minimum), disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection
- Keep bystanders and children well away from the work area
- Do not break sheets — keep them as intact as possible
- Double-bag waste in heavy-duty polythene bags labelled as asbestos waste
- Dispose of waste only at a council-approved facility that accepts asbestos — contact your local council or regional council for approved sites
- Clean the work area thoroughly using wet methods or a HEPA vacuum — never dry sweep
Step 5 — Choosing a Replacement Cladding
Once the old fibrolite is safely removed, modern fibre-cement products from manufacturers such as James Hardie are a popular like-for-like replacement. These contemporary products are asbestos-free and are designed to meet the NZ Building Code. Your LBP or builder can advise on the best system for your home's exposure zone and council requirements.
When to Call a Professional
You should engage a licensed demolition contractor or asbestos removalist if:
- The fibrolite tests positive for asbestos (very likely in pre-1990 homes)
- The total area of ACM exceeds 10 m²
- You are unsure about any aspect of identification, removal, or disposal
- The work involves structural elements or affects weathertightness
A qualified demolition contractor will carry out asbestos testing, hold the correct WorkSafe licence, manage disposal legally, and can coordinate with your LBP for the re-cladding phase. You can find experienced local demolition contractors on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Safety note: Never attempt to remove fibrolite cladding without first confirming whether it contains asbestos. The health consequences of asbestos exposure are severe and irreversible.
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