"How to Safely Remove an Asbestos Roof in NZ (Without Breathing in Trouble)"

Got an Asbestos Roof in NZ? Here’s How to Get It Removed Safely (And Why You Shouldn’t DIY It)

If your home or garage still has that old, wavy, grey corrugated roof that’s seen better days, here’s the deal:
It’s probably made of asbestos cement.
And yep — that means you’re dealing with Class B asbestos under New Zealand’s health and safety rules.

Don’t panic. But also — don’t grab your ladder and start ripping into it either.
Removing an asbestos roof needs to be done properly, legally, and safely.

Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.

First up — What is Class B Asbestos?

In plain speak, Class B asbestos is the non-friable kind. That means it’s still in solid form, usually bonded into cement products like:

• Roofing sheets

• Wall cladding

• Eaves

• Fencing

It won’t crumble in your hands like Class A (friable) asbestos, but once you break it, cut it, or drill it, those toxic fibres get released into the air. And trust us — you don’t want to breathe that stuff in.

Signs You’ve Got an Asbestos Roof

🔨 Your home or garage was built pre-1990
🏚️ The roofing looks like thick, heavy cement corrugate
🪵 It feels brittle or chalky
🪪 No “non-asbestos” stamp or recent roof history
🌧️ It’s withstood 30+ years of weather and still hasn’t budged

Still unsure? Get it tested. That’s step one.

The Right Way to Remove a Class B Asbestos Roof in NZ

Here’s your no-fuss, straight-talking step-by-step guide:

✅ 1. Test It First

Before you even think about touching the roof, get a sample tested. It costs under $100 and can save you a lot of stress (and fines).

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✅ 2. Call in the Pros

In New Zealand, if you’re removing more than 10m² of non-friable asbestos, the law says: Use a licensed Class B asbestos removalist.

Even under 10m²? Do yourself a favour — get a pro in. It’s not worth the risk to your lungs, your family, or your insurance.

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✅ 3. Secure the Site

Your removalist will:

• Isolate the work zone (no kids, pets, or curious neighbours)

• Put up signage

• Gear up in disposable suits and P2-rated respirators

• Make sure the weather’s calm — no removals on windy days!

✅ 4. Keep it Wet

Asbestos loves to go airborne when it’s dry.
A light mist of water on the roof keeps fibres from escaping. It’s simple, but it’s crucial.

✅ 5. Remove the Roof Sheets Whole (No Breaking Allowed)

Breaking = dust = danger.

The team will remove the roofing sheets gently and in full pieces, lower them to the ground, and avoid snapping or stacking them roughly.

✅ 6. Bag, Wrap & Dispose

The removed sheets are:

• Double wrapped in 200-micron plastic

• Clearly labelled as asbestos waste

• Taken to a certified asbestos disposal site

And no — you can’t dump it in your skip bin.

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✅ 7. Final Clean & Air Check

Once the roof’s off, the crew does a final clean-up with HEPA vacuums and wipes everything down.
Some jobs also include clearance air testing for extra peace of mind.

Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Asbestos Roof

We get it — Kiwi DIY culture is strong. But this is not a weekend warrior project.
Here’s why:

• The dust can linger and blow into your neighbour’s yard

• If you mess it up, you could be liable under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016

• You’ll likely void your home insurance if something goes wrong

• The fine? Up to $50,000+ for an individual

Just don’t. Let a licensed removalist take care of it.

What to Replace Your Asbestos Roof With?

After removal, it’s the perfect time to upgrade. Most people go for:

• Colorsteel

• Zincalume

• Modern corrugated roofing without the deadly extras

You’ll boost your home’s value and sleep better knowing the risk is gone.

Final Thoughts: Breathe Easy, Do It Right

An asbestos roof might’ve been tough as nails in the 60s and 70s, but in 2024?
It’s a liability you want off your home — and out of your life.

If you’ve got one, don’t panic.
Just get it tested, get it removed properly, and move on.

Your lungs (and future self) will thank you.