Asbestos removal in Queensland is governed by strict regulations that every homeowner must understand before starting a renovation, demolition, or roofing job. If your house was built before 1990, there is a strong chance it contains asbestos building materials. Protect your family from asbestos today by learning the laws that apply to your home, and how to ensure asbestos is removed, disposed of, and replaced safely and legally.

Queensland Asbestos Laws Every Homeowner Should Know

Asbestos was used extensively across Australia in residential, commercial, and industrial construction until it was completely banned in 2003. In Queensland, asbestos laws are managed by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ), and they set strict requirements for who can remove asbestos, how it must be contained, transported, and disposed of, and what documentation is required.

Key points of Queensland asbestos laws include:

  • Homes built before 1990 commonly contain asbestos in roofing, ceilings, cladding, flooring, and insulation.

  • Only trained and licensed asbestos removal contractors can remove more than 10 square metres of asbestos.

  • Friable asbestos must always be removed by a team or company holding a Class A asbestos removal licence.

  • Asbestos must be double-bagged, sealed, labelled, and transported in a container to an approved disposal site.

  • Failure to comply with asbestos regulations can result in penalties and prosecution.

These laws exist to ensure health and safety are prioritised during asbestos removal services, and to protect both homeowners and workers from long-term risks associated with exposure to asbestos fibres.

Who Can Legally Remove Asbestos in QLD? (Licence Rules Explained)

Asbestos removal

Queensland law is very specific about who can legally remove asbestos. The two main categories are:

  • Class A asbestos removal licence: Allows companies to remove all asbestos, including friable asbestos. Friable asbestos is dangerous because it can easily crumble, releasing fibres into the air. This licence is required for high-risk work such as demolition, soil remediation, or roofing replacement involving friable asbestos.

  • Class B asbestos removal licence: Allows companies to remove only bonded asbestos, which is asbestos-containing material that is mixed with cement or another bonding agent. It does not cover friable asbestos.

A licensed asbestos removal company must also carry public liability insurance and follow strict industry practice to ensure safety on every job. Hiring an A-class licensed asbestos removalist ensures all hazardous material is handled professionally and safely.

For licensed asbestos removal services across Brisbane and the surrounding coast, trust the ICON Asbestos Removal team. From roofing to testing and even preparation for demolition, we ensure safety on every job. Contact us today to get a detailed quote on our professional asbestos services.

DIY vs Professional Asbestos Removal: What's Legal in Queensland

Homeowners are often uncertain whether they can legally remove asbestos themselves. Queensland law permits DIY asbestos removal in very limited situations:

  • DIY asbestos removal is legal if the total area is 10 square metres or less and the material is non-friable.

  • The material must be carefully wetted, handled safely, placed in sealed containers, and disposed of at a licensed asbestos waste facility.

  • A DIY removal job is not allowed for friable asbestos or if the amount exceeds 10 square metres.

A professional asbestos removal service is strongly recommended even when small amounts are involved. A professional asbestos removal service provides a detailed quote, ensures you get proper decontamination, conducts air monitoring, and issues clearance certificates. The team is equipped to handle bonded and friable asbestos removal safely, ensuring your property is fully compliant with Queensland regulations.

For asbestos removal, trust our team at ICON Asbestos Removal in Brisbane. Our professional services ensure every job is handled safely and in line with Queensland regulations. Whether it's a small area or preparation for demolition, contact us today to get a detailed quote on our asbestos removal service.

Where to Check for Asbestos in Queensland Homes

Asbestos was historically used in thousands of construction projects across Queensland. Common places where asbestos may be found include:

  • Roofing sheets, ceilings, and eaves

  • Wall cladding and interior wall panels

  • Insulation around hot water pipes and heaters

  • Floor tiles and vinyl sheeting

  • Garage and shed walls and roofing

  • Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens

  • External fencing and soffits

Because asbestos cannot be identified by sight alone, testing services are essential. A licensed asbestos removal company will conduct inspections, audits, and material sampling to confirm if asbestos is present. Identifying asbestos early ensures safer, more affordable solutions for homeowners, from Brisbane to the Gold Coast.

From Brisbane homes to demolition projects, asbestos can be hidden in roofing, walls, and more. Trust the ICON Asbestos Removal team for safe inspections and removal. Contact us today to protect your home and family.

Asbestos Disposal Rules in Queensland: Where and How

Asbestos disposal

Queensland asbestos laws include strict disposal rules to protect the environment and community. Once asbestos has been removed, it must be:

  • 1

    Sealed in heavy-duty plastic or containers.

  • 2

    Clearly labelled as asbestos waste.

  • 3

    Transported by a licensed asbestos contractor in vehicles designed to contain hazardous materials.

  • 4

    Disposed of only at approved waste facilities that accept asbestos.

  • 5

    Accompanied by appropriate documentation proving disposal.

Illegal dumping of asbestos is a serious offence. Homeowners and businesses can face large fines if asbestos waste is not correctly contained and taken to authorised disposal sites. Using a professional asbestos removal service ensures full compliance and peace of mind.

Health Risks of Asbestos and Why Safe Removal Matters

Asbestos is a hazardous material because its fibres can be inhaled, becoming permanently lodged in the lungs. This can lead to serious health conditions such as:

  • Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer linked directly to asbestos exposure

  • Asbestosis, a chronic lung condition that causes scarring and breathing difficulties

  • Lung cancer

  • Chronic respiratory issues due to long-term fibre contamination

Asbestos exposure can occur even during demolition or small DIY renovation projects if asbestos materials are disturbed. Safe and professional asbestos removal services ensure asbestos is removed, contained, and disposed of properly, protecting both your home and your health.

Asbestos is a serious health risk that requires expert handling. For safe and licensed asbestos removal services, trust ICON Asbestos Removal in Brisbane. Contact us today for expert advice and peace of mind.

How to Find and Verify a Licensed Asbestos Removalist in QLD

Choosing the right asbestos removal company is one of the most important decisions homeowners will make. To verify a removalist, ensure they:

  • Hold an A-class asbestos removal licence if friable asbestos is involved.

  • Provide public liability insurance and compliance documentation.

  • Offer a detailed quote with clear pricing to avoid hidden costs.

  • Have experienced and qualified contractors who are fully trained to remove asbestos.

  • Provide a complete service including inspection, testing, removal, monitoring, and final clearance.

  • Are able to handle residential, commercial, and industrial asbestos projects.

ICON Asbestos Removal specialises in asbestos removal across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast. Our company offers affordable solutions, expert services, transparent pricing, and a dedicated team of specialists who are fully licensed, insured, and trained to handle all asbestos projects.

Penalties for Not Following Queensland Asbestos Regulations

Failing to comply with asbestos laws in Queensland can have severe consequences for property owners and businesses. Penalties include:

  • Significant fines for individuals and companies

  • Prosecution under workplace health and safety legislation

  • Costly remediation projects if asbestos contamination spreads

  • Long-term health risks for occupants of the property

For example, individuals can be fined more than $10,000 for breaching asbestos disposal rules, while companies may get penalties exceeding $50,000. Property owners who hire unlicensed contractors or attempt to remove asbestos themselves without following the law risk both legal action and long-term health impacts.

The Simple 3-Step Process with ICON

  • 1

    Consultation and inspection: Contact ICON Asbestos Removal in Brisbane and schedule a free consultation for a thorough property assessment.

  • 2

    Safe and professional removal: Our licensed asbestos removalist team completes the job with industry-certified practices.

  • 3

    Final clean and compliance: We provide documentation, air monitoring services, and clearance certificates to ensure your property is asbestos-free.

Why Acting on Queensland Asbestos Laws Protects Your Home and Future

Icon asbestos removal

Queensland asbestos laws are designed to keep residents, workers, and communities safe. Understanding the difference between bonded and friable asbestos removal, knowing when you can remove asbestos yourself, and ensuring disposal is done legally are all critical responsibilities of a property owner.

ICON Asbestos Removal in Brisbane specialises in asbestos removal, asbestos roofing replacement, and asbestos remediation services across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast. Our team is equipped to handle residential, commercial, and industrial asbestos projects, from inspections and testing to demolition and disposal.

If you suspect asbestos in your home or business, do not delay. Contact ICON Asbestos Removal in Brisbane, request a free quote, and let our licensed asbestos removal specialists provide safe, affordable, and fully compliant solutions. With the right company by your side, you can protect your family, secure your property, and ensure complete peace of mind.