Planning a renovation? Check for asbestos first.
Any building constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling panels, pipe lagging, and dozens of other materials. Disturbing these during renovation releases dangerous fibres into the air.
Before starting any refurbishment, rehabilitation, or remodelling work, you are legally required in most jurisdictions to commission an asbestos survey. This identifies what materials are present, their condition, and whether they need to be removed before work begins.
Failing to check can halt your project, expose workers and occupants to health risks, and result in significant legal liability.
The Problem
Churches, mosques, synagogues, and other places of worship built or repaired between the 1940s and 1990s may contain asbestos in heating system insulation, roof felts, textured wall and ceiling finishes, and fireproofing materials. Community halls and ancillary buildings attached to places of worship are also at risk.
Many religious buildings are maintained by volunteer committees with limited budgets and no professional property management. This means asbestos surveys may never have been carried out, and well-intentioned DIY renovation work can unknowingly disturb asbestos-containing materials.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 100 year old plaster have asbestos?
Plaster from the early 1900s typically predates widespread asbestos use in construction, which peaked between the 1950s and 1980s. However, subsequent repairs or skim coats may have introduced asbestos-containing materials.
What's worse, mold or asbestos?
Both present serious health risks but through different mechanisms. Mould causes respiratory problems and allergic reactions, while asbestos causes fatal diseases including mesothelioma. Undisturbed asbestos is generally safer than active mould growth.
Does painting over asbestos seal it?
Encapsulating asbestos with paint or sealant can reduce fibre release from deteriorated surfaces as a temporary measure. However, it does not eliminate the risk and does not replace the need for professional assessment and management.
Do 1950s ceiling tiles contain asbestos?
Yes, ceiling tiles from the 1950s frequently contain asbestos, particularly chrysotile. Laboratory testing is essential to confirm whether specific tiles are asbestos-containing.
Do I need an asbestos survey before starting a renovation?
Yes, a refurbishment survey is legally required before any work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials. The survey identifies ACMs in the work area so they can be safely managed or removed before construction begins.
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