Asbestos cement (AC) sheet — found in many NZ homes built before the 1990s as roofing, cladding, and eaves — must be handled and disposed of with great care. When AC material is in good condition and non-friable (not crumbling or powdery), a licensed DIY homeowner may be permitted to remove and bag small quantities under strict conditions, but the rules are tightly controlled under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016. Always confirm what you are legally allowed to do before you start.
⚠️ Safety first: Asbestos fibres are a serious health hazard. Inhaling them can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Never cut, grind, sand, or use a high-pressure hose on asbestos cement material.
Know the Rules Before You Touch Anything
Under NZ law, friable asbestos (material that can be crumbled by hand) must only be removed by a Class A licensed asbestos removalist. Non-friable asbestos cement in quantities of 10 m² or less may be removed by a homeowner on their own home — but only if it is not being disturbed in a way that makes it friable. Anything over 10 m², or any friable material, requires a licensed professional.
Check the current regulations at WorkSafe NZ and confirm requirements with your local council before proceeding. You can find a licensed asbestos removal specialist on tradedirectory.co.nz if you are unsure.
PPE You Must Wear
Never handle asbestos cement without the correct personal protective equipment:
- P2 or P3 disposable respirator (not a dust mask — it must be rated for asbestos fibres)
- Disposable coveralls (Tyvek-style, hooded)
- Disposable gloves (nitrile, at least)
- Safety glasses or goggles
- Disposable boot covers
All disposable PPE must be treated as asbestos waste and bagged along with the material.
What You Need for Wrapping and Bagging
Gather these materials before you begin:
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty polythene sheeting | Minimum 200 µm (micron) thick |
| Asbestos waste bags | Heavy-duty, minimum 0.2 mm thick, printed with asbestos warning label |
| Duct tape or similar | Strong, waterproof |
| Asbestos warning labels | Required on every bag and wrapped bundle |
| Pump garden sprayer | Filled with water (to dampen material and suppress dust) |
Asbestos waste bags and sheeting are available from safety suppliers and some trade stores. Check Bunnings or Mitre 10 for availability, but confirm the bags meet the required specification.
Step-by-Step: Wrapping and Double-Bagging
1. Prepare the Work Area
Lay heavy-duty polythene sheeting on the ground beneath the work area to catch any debris. Keep the area clear of other people and pets. Dampen the asbestos cement sheets lightly with water from a garden sprayer — this helps suppress dust. Do not use a high-pressure hose.
2. Handle Sheets Gently
Carry AC sheets flat and intact wherever possible. Do not drop, break, or drag them. If a sheet must be cut (avoid this if at all possible), use a hand saw — never an angle grinder, circular saw, or any power tool that generates dust.
3. Wrap Individual Sheets or Pieces
Wrap each sheet or group of intact pieces tightly in 200 µm polythene sheeting. Fold the edges over neatly and seal all seams thoroughly with duct tape so there are no gaps. This is your first layer of containment.
4. Double-Bag the Wrapped Material
Place the wrapped bundle into an asbestos waste bag (first bag). Squeeze out excess air, then fold the top of the bag over and seal it firmly with duct tape. Place that sealed bag inside a second asbestos waste bag. Seal the outer bag the same way. This double-bag method is the NZ standard practice for containing asbestos waste.
5. Label Every Package
Every bag and wrapped bundle must be clearly labelled with an asbestos warning label stating the material contains asbestos. Labels must be visible and securely attached. Do not place unlabelled asbestos waste in your general rubbish — this is illegal.
6. Bag Your PPE
Before removing your respirator, wipe down your coveralls with a damp cloth. Remove coveralls, gloves, and boot covers carefully (turning them inside out as you go) and place them into a separate asbestos waste bag. Seal and label it. Remove your respirator last and bag it too. Wash your hands and face thoroughly.
Disposing of Asbestos Waste Legally
Asbestos waste cannot go in your kerbside bin or at a standard transfer station. You must take it to a landfill approved to accept asbestos waste. Contact your local council or regional council to find your nearest approved facility — requirements and accepted quantities vary by region. Some councils require you to notify them in advance. There is usually a disposal fee.
For guidance on NZ Building Code obligations and safe work practices, refer to BRANZ and MBIE Building Performance.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed asbestos removal specialist if:
- The material is friable (crumbling, powdery, or damaged)
- The area involved is more than 10 m²
- You are unsure whether the material contains asbestos (get it tested first)
- The asbestos is in a roof, wall cavity, or other confined space
- You are a landlord — Healthy Homes obligations and liability make professional removal strongly advisable (see Tenancy Services)
A licensed removalist will manage containment, disposal, and provide a clearance certificate. Find a qualified asbestos removal specialist near you on tradedirectory.co.nz.
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