What’s the Real Cost of Removing Class B Asbestos Fences, Sheds & Garages in New Zealand?
Homeowner Alert: That Old Shed Might Be Hiding More Than Spiders
If your property was built before the mid-1980s, there’s a fair chance that charming old garage, backyard fence, or garden shed contains Class B asbestos. That’s the bonded, non-friable stuff – not as fragile as the flaky Class A kind, but still nasty if disturbed.
And here's the kicker: most people don’t know the cost to remove asbestos until they’re knee-deep in broken fibro and regret.
Let’s break it down like a tradie on smoko — in plain English.
🔍 First Up, What Is Class B Asbestos?
Class B asbestos is usually found in fibre cement sheeting, the kind you see on old garage walls, fences, and garden sheds. It doesn’t crumble easily, but if you cut, break, or sand it — those deadly asbestos fibres can be released into the air.
And yes, they stay in your lungs for life.
💸 What’s It Gonna Cost Me?
We get it — you want to know how much. So here’s a rough guide based on current rates around NZ:
| Type of Removal | Average Cost Range (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Small garden shed (10–15m²) | $1,000 – $1,800 |
| Single garage walls only | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Fence panels (per 10m) | $900 – $1,600 |
| Full garage (walls + roof) | $2,500 – $4,000+ |
| Testing (per sample) | $80 – $150 |
| Council disposal fee | $100 – $250 (varies) |
💡 Pro tip: Costs can change depending on access, site setup, and whether the asbestos is damaged or buried.
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🛠️ Can I Do It Myself?
Short answer: maybe. Long answer: should you? Probably not.
Homeowners in NZ are legally allowed to remove up to 10m² of non-friable asbestos without a license. But here’s the rub:
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You still need protective gear
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You need to dispose of it properly at an approved site
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And if you mess it up, you could be breathing in fibres without knowing
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✅ Why Hire a Pro?
A licensed asbestos remover:
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Has the right training and equipment
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Follows WorkSafe NZ regulations
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Knows how to stop fibres spreading
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Handles safe disposal so you don’t have to
They’ll also issue a clearance certificate, which is gold when selling your home.
🧾 What’s Included in a Pro Job?
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Site inspection and scope
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Safe removal of asbestos
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Packaging and disposal fees
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Air monitoring (if needed)
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Final site clean and documentation
Some even include free pre-quote testing or fixed-price packages. Shop around — but make sure they’re Class B certified under WorkSafe NZ.
📞 Final Thoughts: If You Think It’s Asbestos, It Probably Is
Don’t mess about with old cladding or fences that could be packed with asbestos. The cost of doing it wrong could be your health — or a fine from the council.
If you’re in Auckland or anywhere else in NZ, get a quote from a local asbestos removal expert. It’s safer, faster, and won’t leave you wondering if you just poisoned your backyard.
🧰 Need Help?
Property Help Ltd offers safe, certified Class B asbestos removal for garages, sheds, and fences. No guesswork. Just peace of mind.
📞 Contact John Kerr
✉️ Safety1stprojects@gmail.com
📱 021 222 5246
Make Enquiry