Most people expect asbestos in old roofs or fences, but it often surprises clients when we show them the less obvious places it hides. Even in 2025, asbestos remains one of the most common hazardous materials we deal with across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Knowing where it turns up and how to manage it is critical to keeping your property safe and compliant.
Where Asbestos Commonly Hides
- Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives – Many mid-century homes used asbestos in vinyl products.
- Switchboards and meter boxes – Backing boards often contained asbestos insulation.
- Bathroom and laundry walls – Wet areas commonly used asbestos cement sheeting.
- Old flues and pipe insulation – Friable asbestos in heating or hot water systems.
- Soil contamination – Past demolition fill or dumping can leave asbestos fragments underground.
- Outbuildings and fences – Garages, sheds, and ‘Super Six’ fencing sheets are frequent finds.
Why It Matters
Asbestos fibres, once disturbed, can cause fatal diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis. The risks aren’t worth guessing or attempting DIY. WorkSafe Victoria regulations require asbestos removal to be carried out by licensed professionals, with proper notification and EPA-approved disposal.
Recent Local Example
We recently completed a job in Melbourne where the owner thought asbestos was only in the eaves. Once we tested, we found asbestos in the vinyl floor adhesive, switchboard backing, and even the shed fence line. Because it was handled by a Class A licensed team, everything was removed safely, disposed of correctly, and the client received a full clearance certificate.
What To Do If You Suspect Asbestos
- Don’t disturb the material.
- Arrange asbestos testing through a licensed hygienist.
- Get a clear scope and methodology before removal.
- Ensure waste is wrapped, transported, and disposed of at an EPA-licensed site.
- Ask for clearance documentation after works are complete.
If you suspect asbestos at your Melbourne or Victorian property, call Precision Environmental on 0407 102 365. We provide asbestos testing, licensed removal, and full compliance with WorkSafe and EPA Victoria requirements.
