Why is animal and bird waste a health hazard?
Animal faeces and bird droppings contain bacteria, parasites, fungi, and other pathogens that can pose serious health risks. Bird guano (especially from pigeons) can transmit diseases such as histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis. Animal faeces can also attract pests, cause strong odours, and contaminate indoor air quality if not properly removed.
What types of animal waste do you remove?
We remove and dispose of:
We also handle large-volume clean-ups where waste has accumulated over time due to infestation or building neglect.
Is bird and animal waste removal legally regulated?
Yes. If the waste presents a biological hazard, it must be removed and disposed of in line with EPA Victoria and WorkSafe regulations, especially in commercial, industrial, and public access buildings. This includes using proper PPE, containment, and waste disposal methods.
Where is bird and animal waste commonly found?
Animal and bird waste often builds up in:
We’re equipped to safely access and clean hard-to-reach or hazardous locations.
What’s involved in the clean-up process?
Our process includes:
For larger jobs, we may also install negative air systems to prevent airborne spread.
Can you provide documentation for landlords or commercial buildings?
Yes. We can provide a completion summary outlining the scope of works and methods used. If hygiene testing is required, we can refer you to an independent occupational hygienist.
Do you handle both residential and commercial jobs?
Absolutely. We manage clean-ups in homes, rental properties, schools, shopping centres, apartment complexes, factories, and government buildings across Victoria. No matter the size or location, we have the equipment and experience to get the job done safely and legally.
Do you service all of Victoria?
Yes. Precision Environmental carries out animal and bird waste removal across Melbourne and all regional areas, including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, the Mornington Peninsula, and rural sites.
Below are some of the most common questions we receive about asbestos identification, removal, and safety. All information is based on current regulations and guidance from WorkSafe Victoria and asbestos.vic.gov.au.
How do I know if my property contains asbestos?
If your home or building was constructed before 1990, there’s a high chance it contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Common areas include bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, eaves, roof sheeting, garages, sheds, and heater flues. Precision Environmental can take samples and submit them to an independent hygienist for certified testing. Results are typically returned within 24 to 48 hours.
Can I remove asbestos myself?
In Victoria, you can legally remove up to 10 square metres of non-friable asbestos, provided you follow WorkSafe safety rules. This includes wearing disposable PPE, wetting down materials, and disposing of them at a licensed facility. Friable asbestos removal is prohibited without a Class A licence. We recommend all asbestos removal be carried out by licensed professionals to avoid health and legal risks.
What licences and qualifications does Precision Environmental have?
We are licensed for Class A (friable) and Class B (non-friable) asbestos removal. All works are conducted under OHS Regulations 2017 (Vic), WorkSafe Victoria’s asbestos removal code, and EPA Victoria guidelines. Our process includes HEPA vacuums, negative pressure units, full PPE, and independent hygienist clearance certificates where required.
What happens to the asbestos after it’s removed?
All asbestos waste is double-wrapped, labelled, and transported using the EPA Waste Tracker system to an approved landfill. We can provide disposal documentation on request.
Do I need a clearance certificate after asbestos removal?
For friable asbestos (Class A), clearance inspections are legally required and must be done by an independent hygienist. For non-friable (Class B), clearance certificates are optional but often recommended. We can organise them upon request.
How do I organize asbestos testing or a removal quote?
Contact Precision Environmental directly. We’ll visit your site, take samples (if needed), and send them to a hygienist. Based on the results, we’ll provide a detailed quote and scope of works. We operate across all of Victoria and provide 24-hour emergency response where required.
Why is professional asbestos removal important?
Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Using licensed professionals ensures safe removal and legal compliance.
What is asbestos testing?
Asbestos testing is the process of collecting samples from building materials and analysing them in a certified lab to check for the presence of asbestos fibres. It’s essential before renovations, demolition, or if you suspect hazardous materials on your property.
Why should I get asbestos testing done?
Asbestos is a health risk when disturbed. Testing helps you confirm if asbestos is present and ensures you meet safety and compliance requirements before starting work. It’s also required by law in many renovation or demolition projects across Victoria.
How much does asbestos testing cost in Melbourne?
The cost of asbestos sample testing can vary depending on how many samples are taken and the lab turnaround time. At Precision Environmental, we offer fast, affordable asbestos testing with NATA-accredited results. Contact us for a custom quote.
How long does asbestos testing take?
Standard asbestos lab results are usually available within 2–3 business days. Express same-day or next-day testing is also available upon request for urgent jobs.
What happens if asbestos is found?
If asbestos is confirmed in your sample, you’ll need a licensed asbestos removalist (Class A or B depending on the type) to manage it safely. Our team can provide a full removal quote, clearance, and safe disposal across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Can I test for asbestos myself?
No. Asbestos sample collection must be done by a trained professional following WorkSafe Victoria safety protocol. DIY asbestos testing kits are not recommended and may cause exposure risks if used incorrectly.
Where in Victoria do you offer asbestos testing services?
Precision Environmental provides asbestos testing across all of Melbourne and regional Victoria, including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, the Mornington Peninsula, and beyond.
Do you issue official asbestos clearance certificates?
We work closely with licensed occupational hygienists and independent assessors to ensure clearance certificates are issued when required. This is often mandatory after asbestos removal works.
What materials can contain asbestos?
Common materials that may contain asbestos include vinyl floor tiles, eaves, backing boards, switchboards, old roof sheets, pipe lagging, and mastic. If your building was built before 1990, it’s best to get suspect materials tested.
What is C.B. (Compressed Board)?
Compressed Board (commonly referred to as C.B. sheeting) is a high-density building material often used in exterior wall cladding, eaves, balcony undersides, and structural flooring. Many older compressed board products manufactured before the 1990s may contain asbestos, making their removal a regulated and hazardous process.
Why is C.B. dangerous to remove?
When C.B. sheeting contains asbestos and is cut, drilled, broken, or disturbed, it can release dangerous fibres into the air. Inhalation of asbestos fibres is linked to serious diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. That’s why C.B. removal must only be carried out by trained, licensed professionals under strict safety controls.
How do I know if the compressed board on my property contains asbestos?
If the building was constructed or renovated before the early 1990s, there’s a high likelihood that the C.B. sheeting contains asbestos. The only way to confirm is through laboratory testing of a material sample. Precision Environmental can assist by arranging a sample collection or working from an existing asbestos audit report.
Is C.B. removal a licensed activity?
Yes. Removal of asbestos-containing C.B. products is a Class B licensed activity under WorkSafe Victoria guidelines. Precision Environmental holds the necessary licences, training, and insurances to remove and legally dispose of C.B. materials across Victoria.
Where is asbestos-containing C.B. commonly found?
You’ll typically find it in:
How do you safely remove C.B. products?
Our process includes:
All works are completed under a detailed SWMS and in full compliance with Victorian asbestos removal codes.
Do you issue clearance certificates after removal?
Yes. Once removal is complete, we can organise a third-party occupational hygienist to carry out an inspection and issue a formal clearance certificate, if required by the client or principal contractor.
Do you remove C.B. from residential and commercial sites?
Yes. We handle C.B. removal for houses, apartment blocks, retail premises, schools, aged care facilities, and industrial buildings. Whether it’s a single panel or a full building strip, we’ve got it covered.
Do you work across Victoria?
Absolutely. We service all areas of Melbourne and regional Victoria, including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, the Mornington Peninsula, Shepparton, and beyond. Our team is fully mobile and equipped to handle metro and remote projects.
What is contaminated soil?
Contaminated soil contains hazardous substances such as asbestos, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, pesticides, or other industrial pollutants. These contaminants can pose serious environmental and health risks if not properly managed. Soil contamination is often found on former industrial sites, under old buildings, in fuel storage areas, and where illegal dumping has occurred.
What do Class A, B, and C soil classifications mean?
Precision Environmental is licensed and experienced to handle Class A, B, and C soil in accordance with EPA Victoria guidelines.
How is contaminated soil identified?
Contaminated soil is usually detected through environmental site assessments, geotechnical testing, or hazardous materials audits. If your project involves excavation, demolition, or redevelopment, contaminated soil testing is typically required before works begin.
Do I need contaminated soil removed from my site?
Yes, if soil testing shows contamination above EPA thresholds, it must be removed, treated, or contained by a licensed contractor. Leaving contaminated soil onsite without proper management can result in environmental breaches, legal penalties, and health risks to workers and the public.
How do you safely remove contaminated soil?
We manage contaminated soil projects by:
All works are carried out under site-specific SWMS and EPA-approved procedures.
Do you handle both small and large-scale remediation projects?
Yes. We carry out soil remediation for residential, commercial, civil, and industrial projects across Victoria. Whether you need a few tonnes of contaminated soil removed from a backyard or a full-scale remediation of an industrial site, we have the equipment, licensing, and experience to handle it safely and legally.
What happens to contaminated soil after it’s removed?
All contaminated soil is transported to EPA-licensed waste facilities for disposal or treatment. We complete all required EPA waste transport certificates to ensure full compliance with Victorian regulations.
Do you provide documentation for compliance?
Yes. We provide all required EPA waste transport certificates and coordinate with your environmental consultant or project manager if further documentation is needed.
Do you service all of Victoria?
Yes. Precision Environmental offers contaminated soil removal services across Melbourne and throughout regional Victoria, including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Gippsland, Shepparton, and remote sites.
Below are some of the most common questions we get about fire-damaged property clean-ups in Victoria. Everything we do follows WorkSafe Victoria and EPA guidelines, and our goal is always to make your site safe, legally compliant and ready for the next stage.
What hazards are left behind after a fire?
Fires don’t just burn walls and roofs; they can leave behind serious health risks. This includes friable asbestos, lead paint dust, smoke and soot contamination, burnt vinyl flooring, damaged insulation, and exposed structural elements. We assess all materials for contamination and remove them properly using licensed methods.
Can I clean up a fire-damaged site myself?
We strongly advise against it. Fire-damaged buildings often contain friable asbestos and other hazardous substances that require proper controls. In Victoria, you must hold a Class A licence to remove friable asbestos. Even if there’s no asbestos, handling burnt debris without the right PPE and waste protocols can lead to serious exposure and legal issues.
What’s involved in a fire-damaged property clean-up?
We inspect the damage, isolate the area, and put together a safe work method. This usually includes:
We take care of everything start to finish, including coordination with insurers, builders or hygienists.
Does fire make asbestos more dangerous?
Yes. When asbestos-containing materials are exposed to fire, they often become friable, meaning they can crumble easily and release fibres into the air. This turns what was once stable into a major risk. Fire-damaged asbestos must be removed by a licensed Class A contractor like us, using full containment and safety controls.
What qualifications does Precision Environmental have?
We hold full Class A and B asbestos removal licences, are insured for hazardous clean-up, and follow all EPA and WorkSafe regulations. Our team is trained in friable asbestos removal, lead remediation, fire-damaged materials handling, and emergency clean-up protocols.
Do I need a hygienist after the clean-up?
For friable asbestos or lead dust yes, a clearance inspection is usually required to confirm the area is safe for re-entry. We can organise this for you. If it’s a general smoke or fire-damage job with no asbestos or lead, clearances may not be mandatory, but they’re still recommended on larger jobs or sensitive sites like schools or hospitals.
How much does a fire-damaged clean-up cost?
Costs vary depending on the extent of the damage, the size of the building, and whether hazardous materials like asbestos or lead are involved. We can quote off a fire report, photos, or by attending site. Quotes include labour, waste disposal, PPE, and any equipment needed to complete the job safely.
Why is lead paint dangerous?
Lead-based paint is highly toxic and can pose serious health risks when disturbed. Inhaling or ingesting lead dust or flakes can cause damage to the brain, kidneys, and nervous system — especially in children, pregnant women, and tradespeople. Even small amounts can be harmful. That’s why lead paint removal must be done professionally, under strict safety controls.
How do I know if my property has lead paint?
Lead-based paint was commonly used in Australian homes and buildings up until the late 1970s and in some cases even later. It’s often found on older timber windows, doors, skirting boards, balustrades, and ceilings. If you’re planning renovation or demolition works on a building constructed before the mid-1990s, there’s a high chance lead paint may be present. A hazardous materials audit or paint sample test can confirm it.
Can I remove lead paint myself?
No. DIY removal of lead paint is extremely dangerous and not recommended. Scraping, sanding, or blasting lead-based coatings without proper containment and PPE can contaminate the entire property and expose occupants to serious health risks. Precision Environmental is fully licensed and equipped to remove and dispose of lead paint safely and legally.
What methods do you use to remove lead paint?
We use a range of safe, compliant methods depending on the surface, condition, and environment. This includes chemical stripping, low impact scraping, dustless blasting, and full encapsulation or removal of contaminated materials. All works are carried out in line with WorkSafe Victoria and EPA requirements.
Do you provide clearance testing after lead paint removal?
We don’t provide hygiene testing ourselves, but we can coordinate with a qualified occupational hygienist if clearance sampling or certification is required for handover or compliance.
Can you remove lead paint from residential and commercial properties?
Yes. We work on homes, apartment buildings, schools, childcare centres, industrial sites, and commercial facilities across Victoria. Whether it’s a small internal strip or a full façade clean-up, we can handle it.
Do you dispose of lead-contaminated waste legally?
Yes. All lead-contaminated paint, dust, and materials are handled, packaged, transported, and disposed of in accordance with EPA Victoria regulations. We also issue waste tracking documents where required.
How long does lead paint removal take?
The duration depends on the size of the job, access, and how many surfaces are affected. Small jobs can take one day, while larger-scale remediation may take several days or more. We’ll provide a detailed timeline as part of your quote.
What safety measures do you use during removal?
We use full containment procedures, dust suppression systems, negative air machines, HEPA vacuums, and PPE to ensure lead dust does not spread beyond the work area. All works are completed under a site-specific SWMS and in line with OHS legislation.
Where in Victoria do you offer lead paint removal?
We work across all of Victoria, including Melbourne metro, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Warrnambool, and surrounding areas. We’re available for both planned projects and urgent remediation works.
What is meth contamination?
Meth contamination (short for methamphetamine) occurs when a property has been used to smoke or manufacture the drug. Toxic residue from meth can soak into walls, ceilings, ductwork, air conditioning, floors, and soft furnishings. These harmful chemicals stay behind long after use and can seriously impact health.
Why is methamphetamine residue dangerous?
Residue left from meth use or meth labs can cause serious health problems: skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues, headaches, sleep disruption, behavioural changes in children, and even long-term neurological damage. Properties contaminated with meth are considered hazardous and unfit to live in until they’re professionally decontaminated.
How can I tell if a house has meth contamination?
Common signs include strong chemical smells, yellowish stains on ceilings or walls, changes to ventilation or ductwork, and leftover lab equipment or chemical waste. To know for sure, you’ll need surface testing by a certified occupational hygienist using approved testing methods like NIOSH.
Can I clean a meth-contaminated property myself?
No. DIY cleaning can make the problem worse by spreading contamination around the property. Meth decontamination needs specialist training, equipment, and legal disposal. Precision Environmental is fully trained and licensed to remediate meth-contaminated properties properly and safely.
What’s involved in professional meth cleanup?
Our meth remediation process includes:
• Initial site inspection, risk assessment, and isolation
• Removal and disposal of contaminated items and porous materials
• Specialist surface treatment using approved chemical cleaning agents
• HEPA vacuuming, air scrubbing, and ductwork decontamination
• Final detail clean of all affected areas
We follow WorkSafe Victoria and national remediation standards on every job.
Do you organise post-clean clearance testing?
Yes. While we don’t test in-house, we work with trusted hygienists who can provide independent clearance reports after we’ve finished the clean-up. These reports are essential for property managers, real estate listings, and insurance claims.
What types of properties do you clean?
We remediate meth contamination in all property types across Victoria:
• Houses and units
• Rentals and Airbnbs
• Commercial buildings and shopfronts
• Factories and warehouses
Whether it’s just one room or a full-house meth cleanup, we’ve got it covered.
Is methamphetamine remediation a legal requirement?
Yes. In Victoria, contaminated properties must be professionally cleaned before anyone can move in, rent, or sell. Most councils and real estate agents will not allow reoccupation without a formal clearance certificate from a hygienist.
How long does a meth clean-up take?
Most clean-ups take between 1 and 5 business days, depending on the size of the building and the level of meth contamination. We’ll give you a detailed plan and timeline upfront.
Do you service all of Victoria?
Yes. Precision Environmental handles meth and methamphetamine clean-up jobs across Victoria, including Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, the Mornington Peninsula, and all regional areas.
What causes mould to grow inside buildings?
Mould forms when moisture builds up in areas with poor ventilation, leaks, or water damage. Common causes include roof leaks, broken pipes, overflowing gutters, or damp subfloors. We identify visible signs of moisture and safely remove mould-affected materials to prevent it from returning.
Is indoor mould dangerous to health?
Yes. Mould exposure can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, skin irritation, and asthma symptoms. It can be especially harmful to children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. We remove mould thoroughly and legally to keep your home or workplace safe.
How do you remove mould safely?
We isolate the area, use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers and vacuums, remove contaminated materials, and apply anti-microbial treatment where required. Our team follows strict safety procedures to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the job is done right the first time.
Do you provide clearance certificates after mould removal?
We don’t issue clearance reports ourselves, but if you require one, we can recommend an independent occupational hygienist who can attend after the works are complete to provide testing and certification.
Can you remove mould from walls, ceilings, and structural areas?
Yes. We remove mould from plaster walls, ceilings, framing, insulation, and any other building materials that are affected. If soft furnishings or carpets are too far gone, we also handle the disposal in line with EPA and WorkSafe Victoria requirements.
How long does mould remediation take?
Most mould removal jobs are completed in 1 to 3 days, depending on the extent of the damage and access to the area. We’ll give you a clear timeframe before starting and can work around your schedule if needed.
Do you work on both residential and commercial properties?
Yes. We carry out mould remediation in homes, offices, schools, aged care, warehouses, and other commercial or industrial sites. Precision Environmental is fully insured and experienced in managing both small and large-scale jobs.
Can you help if water damage is involved?
Yes. We remove all damaged and contaminated materials caused by water intrusion and carry out a thorough clean-up to prevent further mould growth.
Do you service all of Victoria?
Yes. We work across Melbourne and regional Victoria including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Gippsland, and more. No matter the location, we can mobilise quickly and legally.
What are PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls)?
PCBs are a group of man-made chemical compounds once commonly used in electrical equipment, industrial oils, paints, adhesives, sealants, and building materials. They were banned in Australia due to their extreme toxicity, persistence in the environment, and proven link to cancer, reproductive harm, and immune system damage.
Where are PCBs commonly found?
PCBs are often found in:
If your property or facility was built or fitted out before the 1990s, there’s a risk that PCBs may be present.
Are PCBs dangerous to health and the environment?
Yes. PCBs are toxic and persistent organic pollutants. Exposure can cause a wide range of health problems, including cancer, skin disorders, liver damage, immune suppression, and developmental issues. Improper disposal or disturbance of PCB-containing materials can also lead to soil and water contamination.
Is PCB removal a regulated activity?
Yes. The removal, handling, and disposal of PCB-containing materials is strictly controlled under EPA Victoria, WorkSafe, and national hazardous waste regulations. Only trained and licensed contractors are permitted to carry out PCB remediation, and waste must be transported and disposed of at EPA-licensed hazardous waste facilities.
How do you safely remove and dispose of PCBs?
Our process includes:
All works are completed under a detailed SWMS and in accordance with Victoria’s Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations.
What types of properties or facilities do you service?
We carry out PCB removal for:
Whether it’s a small clean-up or a full decommissioning of PCB-affected systems, we manage it from start to finish.
Can you provide compliance documentation?
Yes. We provide:
If further reporting is needed for EPA submission or audit purposes, we can coordinate with your environmental consultant.
Do you service all of Victoria?
Yes. Precision Environmental offers PCB remediation and disposal across Melbourne and all regional areas including Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Gippsland, Shepparton, the Mornington Peninsula, and beyond.
What is crystalline silica and why is it dangerous?
Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral found in materials like concrete, bricks, tiles, mortar, stone, and engineered stone. When these materials are cut, ground, drilled, or demolished, they release fine silica dust. Inhalation of this dust can lead to serious and irreversible health issues, including silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and kidney disease.
What types of materials contain silica?
Silica is present in:
If you’re working with or demolishing these materials, there’s a high risk of silica dust exposure without proper controls.
Is silica dust removal a legal requirement?
Yes. Under Victorian OHS regulations, strict control measures are required when disturbing silica-containing products. Businesses must eliminate or minimise exposure to airborne crystalline silica. Precision Environmental carries out silica removal and disposal in line with WorkSafe Victoria and EPA guidelines, using appropriate containment and filtration controls.
How do you safely remove silica-containing materials?
We use Class H HEPA-filtered vacuums, water suppression methods, negative air pressure systems, and full PPE to safely remove contaminated dust and materials. Our team also establishes exclusion zones and uses safe removal techniques to avoid dry-cutting or uncontrolled demolition. All waste is packaged and transported to EPA-approved facilities.
Can you remove silica from construction sites and industrial buildings?
Yes. We specialise in the removal and disposal of silica-based materials and dust from residential, commercial, and industrial sites. Whether it’s during a demolition, renovation, engineered stone removal, or after a contamination event, we can safely manage the entire process.
Do you remove contaminated dust and provide a full clean-up?
Yes. In addition to removing silica-based products like cement sheeting or benchtops, we carry out detailed internal cleaning of contaminated areas. This includes HEPA vacuuming, surface decontamination, and safe disposal of all waste materials.
Can you provide clearance certificates or testing?
We do not perform air monitoring or hygiene testing ourselves, but if required, we can refer you to a licensed occupational hygienist who can conduct clearance testing after works are complete.
How long does silica removal take?
Timeframes vary depending on the scope of work. Small jobs can be completed within a day, while larger-scale removals may take several days. We provide clear timelines and can work outside business hours if needed to minimise disruption.
Do you dispose of silica-contaminated waste legally?
Yes. All contaminated materials and dust are handled, contained, and transported in accordance with EPA Victoria and WorkSafe regulations. We issue waste tracking documentation where required.
Do you work across Victoria?
Yes. We remove silica products and dust across Melbourne and all regions of Victoria, including Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Shepparton, the Mornington Peninsula, and regional job sites.
At Precision Environmental, our qualified team of licensed professionals is committed to:
Safe and efficient asbestos removal (Class A and B)
Thorough mould remediation and moisture damage treatment
Certified lead paint stripping and disposal
Contaminated soil excavation and EPA-approved waste transport
Emergency response for fire-damaged and meth-contaminated sites
