Where Asbestos Hides in NZ Homes

If your home was built before 1984, there's a good chance that it contains some asbestos. In the past, asbestos was seen as a reliable building material—cheap, durable, and fire-retardant. What we know now, however, is that these fibres, once disturbed, are very harmful if breathed in.

The catch? Asbestos isn't always obvious. It can be tucked away in unexpected places. Here's what most commonly appears in New Zealand homes.

Roofs and Exterior Cladding

Asbestos cement sheets were widely used on Kiwi homes, from the roof right down to the soffits and exterior walls. These are one of the most visible signs of asbestos in NZ homes. From the street, they can look like regular fibre-cement boards, but they’re very different once you start drilling or cutting into them.

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Old Fences and Decking

That grey, wavy fence you see around so many older properties? Often it’s asbestos. The same goes for some styles of decking sheets from the mid-20th century. Because they’ve been weathering for decades, they’re more fragile now, which makes them easier to break—and riskier to handle.

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Vinyl Flooring and Adhesives

Inside, asbestos hides in the flooring. Old vinyl tiles and lino are another common example of asbestos in NZ homes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

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Textured Ceilings

Textured or “popcorn” ceilings are another hiding place. Many of them contain asbestos, and even a small job—like scraping back the finish or drilling a hole for new lighting—disturbs the fibres.

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Around Heat Sources

Because asbestos is heat-retardant, builders used it in hot spots around the home. You find it around fireplaces, hot water cupboards, and even in some older electrical switchboards.

The Risks of Asbestos in NZ Homes...

Asbestos is harmless as long as it is undisturbed and remains in good condition. It poses a risk when it breaks, crumbles, or is disturbed (especially during renovations or DIY projects).

What To Do If You Suspect Asbestos in Your Home...

• Leave it alone - Don't cut, sand, or rip it out yourself.

• Get a test - A laboratory test is the only way to confirm if a material contains asbestos.

• Call in professionals - Licensed asbestos removalists have the training, gear, and systems to make it safe.

If your home was built before 1990 and you’re planning work, always ask yourself: "Could this contain asbestos?" A quick check now keeps you, your family, and your home safe.

Need Help with Asbestos in Your Home?

At Asbestos Eliminators, we specialise in the safe removal and disposal of asbestos across the Central North Island.

Whether you're planning a renovation or just want peace of mind, our licensed team is here to help.

Get In Touch Today!