Renovating or Demolishing? Start with Asbestos Testing.
- Zoe Muggleton
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
If you're planning a reno, demo, or even just some plumbing or electrical work, there’s one important step to take before you start: check for asbestos.
It’s not just about ticking a box—it’s about protecting your health, your wallet, and your project from delays or legal issues.
What is asbestos testing?
Asbestos can’t be identified just by looking—it takes lab testing to know for sure. That’s where we come in.
We’ll carefully collect small samples of any suspect materials, send them to an accredited lab, and explain the results in plain english so you know exactly what you’re dealing with. If your project requires either an Asbestos Management, Refurbishment or Demolition Report we will put you in touch with an Asbestos Assessor.
Learn more: Asbestos Sampling & Testing
Why is testing so important?
Asbestos is often hidden.
It was used in a huge range of building materials in NZ up until the 1990s. You might find it in:
Fencing Panels & Decking
Roofing Tiles/Sheets
Cladding/Soffits
Even if the surface looks modern, asbestos could still be underneath.
Disturbing it is dangerous.
If asbestos gets cut, sanded, or broken, tiny fibres can be released into the air—invisible, easily inhaled, and harmful to your health. Long-term exposure can lead to serious illnesses like mesothelioma and lung cancer.
More info...
It's a legal must-do.
The Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 advises that asbestos has to be identified before any work that could disturb it—that includes renos, demolitions, and even minor plumbing or wiring jobs.
It can save you thousands.
Sometimes a material might look like it contains asbestos—but a simple $100 test could prove it doesn’t. That means no unnecessary removal, no delays, and no WorkSafe notifications. A little test can go a long way.
When should you test?
It’s a good idea to get testing done before you:
Pull up old vinyl flooring
Remove or skim ceilings
Drill into soffits or external cladding
Replace roofing
Fix damage from a leak or flood
Start demolishing anything
Often, just a few samples are enough—we’ll help you figure out what needs to be tested (and what doesn’t).
Need a demolition or refurbishment survey?
If you’re planning a full demolition or major renovation, the law requires a more detailed inspection called a Demolition or Refurbishment Asbestos Survey.
These surveys:
Must be carried out by a licenced asbestos assessor
Involve an invasive inspection
Identify all asbestos-containing materials
Include a written report for your records
Not sure what kind of survey you need? No problem—we’ll walk you through it and can connect you with a trusted, qualified assessor.
Tearing down a whole building?
You’ll legally need a demolition survey before removing a house, garage, or commercial structure. We can help coordinate the entire process to make sure your project stays compliant and on track.
Service info: Small-Scale Demolition
What happens after testing?
Here’s how it works:
We take samples safely (no risk to you or your home)
Samples are sent to an accredited lab
You’ll get your results in 1–3 business days
If asbestos is found, we’ll guide you on next steps—whether that’s removal, encapsulation, or just leaving it safely alone
Peace of Mind Starts Here
Asbestos testing is fast, affordable, and gives you confidence to move ahead with your project safely.
Before you lift a hammer, give us a call on 027 499 6023 or contact us for a free chat—no pressure, just honest advice.
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