Licensed asbestos removalists in New Zealand are legally required to notify WorkSafe NZ at least 5 working days before commencing certain asbestos removal work. This requirement sits under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 and applies to both Class A and Class B licensed removalists once specific thresholds are met. Understanding these rules matters whether you're a homeowner planning a renovation or simply trying to understand what your removalist should be doing.
Why Notification Is Required
Asbestos is a serious health hazard. Inhaling asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer — diseases that may not appear for decades after exposure. Because of this, New Zealand has strict controls on who can remove asbestos and how they must do it. The notification requirement gives WorkSafe the opportunity to monitor, inspect, and enforce safe practices before and during removal work.
The 5 Working Day Rule
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, a licensed asbestos removalist must notify WorkSafe no later than 5 working days before removal work begins when:
- The work involves Class A asbestos removal (friable asbestos — the most dangerous type, which can be crumbled by hand), or
- The work involves Class B asbestos removal (non-friable asbestos) where the area of material to be removed exceeds 10 square metres
For Class B removal work involving 10 square metres or less, notification is not required, though a Class B licence is still needed to carry out the work legally.
Always confirm the current thresholds and requirements directly with WorkSafe NZ, as regulations can be updated.
Class A vs Class B Licences
| Licence Type | Asbestos Type | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Friable (loose, crumbly) | Pipe lagging, sprayed coatings, loose-fill insulation |
| Class B | Non-friable (bonded, solid) | Fibro cement sheets, vinyl floor tiles, roofing |
Only a Class A licensed removalist can remove friable asbestos. Class B removalists are limited to non-friable materials. Both licence types are issued and regulated by WorkSafe NZ.
What the Notification Must Include
The notification to WorkSafe typically needs to include details such as:
- The name and licence number of the removalist
- The location and description of the work site
- The type and estimated quantity of asbestos-containing material (ACM)
- The planned start date and expected duration
- The removal methods and control measures to be used
- Air monitoring and decontamination arrangements
Your removalist is responsible for submitting this notification — it is not something the homeowner needs to lodge. However, as a homeowner, it's reasonable to ask your removalist to confirm they have notified WorkSafe before work begins.
What Homeowners Should Know
If you suspect your home contains asbestos — particularly in homes built before 1990, when asbestos use was common in New Zealand — you should arrange an asbestos survey or inspection by a competent person before any demolition, renovation, or maintenance work disturbs materials.
Common locations for asbestos-containing materials in NZ homes include:
- Fibro cement (fibrolite) cladding and soffits
- Vinyl floor tiles and backing
- Roof shingles and guttering
- Textured ceiling coatings ("popcorn" ceilings)
- Pipe lagging and insulation
Do not attempt to remove or disturb suspected asbestos yourself. Even minor disturbance can release dangerous fibres. This is restricted work that must be carried out by a licensed asbestos removalist.
Building Consents and Asbestos
Asbestos removal itself does not typically require a building consent, but the renovation or demolition work that follows often does. Check with your local council about consent requirements for your specific project. The MBIE Building Performance website has useful guidance on when consents are needed and what falls under Schedule 1 exemptions — though your council has the final say.
When to Call a Professional
You must engage a licensed asbestos removalist for any removal of friable asbestos or non-friable asbestos over 10 square metres. This is not optional — it is a legal requirement under New Zealand health and safety law. Attempting to remove asbestos yourself (or hiring an unlicensed person) puts you, your family, and your neighbours at serious risk, and can result in significant fines.
A qualified removalist will:
- Conduct or arrange an asbestos assessment
- Notify WorkSafe within the required timeframe
- Set up proper containment and decontamination facilities
- Dispose of asbestos waste at an approved facility
- Provide clearance documentation once work is complete
You can find licensed asbestos removal specialists in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz. Always ask to see their WorkSafe licence before work begins.
Sources & Further Reading
- WorkSafe NZ – Asbestos — regulations, licensing, and notification requirements
- MBIE Building Performance — building consents and the NZ Building Code
- BRANZ — research and guidance on building materials including asbestos
- Standards NZ — relevant NZ standards for asbestos management
- Consumer NZ — homeowner rights and hiring tradespeople
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