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"How to Remove Your Asbestos Fence in Auckland Without Stuffing It Up: A Homeowner’s Safety Guide"

How to Remove Your Asbestos Fence in Auckland Without Stuffing It Up

So, you’ve got one of those old-school corrugated fences around your property and you’re 99% sure it’s asbestos. You want it gone—like, yesterday. But before you start swinging a sledgehammer, stop right there. This isn’t a DIY moment like painting your deck. Mess it up and you’re in a world of hurt—literally. Asbestos isn’t your average backyard nuisance.

In this no-fluff guide, we’ll walk you through the safe way to remove an asbestos fence in Auckland, how to keep yourself out of hospital, and what the law says you can (and can’t) do.

🧠 First Things First – Is It Really Asbestos?

Most of these fences are made from asbestos cement sheeting (often called Super Six or Fibro). If your fence was installed before the mid-1980s, there's a high chance it's the real deal. Don’t guess—get an asbestos survey done by a licensed professional in Auckland. It's worth the few hundred bucks to avoid a contaminated property.

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📋 What the NZ Law Says – Don’t Wing It

In New Zealand, Class B asbestos (non-friable) can technically be removed by homeowners if it’s under 10 square metres and not damaged. But honestly? That’s risky business unless you’ve got proper asbestos PPE, certified disposal bags, and a plan that follows WorkSafe guidelines.

If you’re in Auckland and your fence is larger or crumbling, you must use a licensed asbestos removalist. No debate.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Guide to Removing an Asbestos Fence (Small Sections Only)

⚠️ WARNING: This is for educational purposes. If you're not confident or lack the right gear, don’t do it. Hire a pro.

1. Gear Up Like You Mean It

  • P2 rated respirator (not a dust mask from Bunnings)

  • Disposable coveralls

  • Gloves, goggles, gumboots

  • Waterproof boot covers

2. Prep the Area

  • Notify your neighbours (seriously, it’s the law if they’re within sniffing distance).

  • Hose the fence down gently. The goal is no dust.

  • Put plastic drop sheets on the ground to catch any debris.

3. Unscrew, Don’t Smash

  • Carefully unscrew panels.

  • Use hand tools only—no grinders, no saws, no high-pressure water.

  • Wrap each piece in double-layered 200μm polythene plastic, seal with duct tape, and label “Caution: Asbestos”.

4. Clean-Up Is Critical

  • Wipe all surfaces with damp cloths (no vacuuming).

  • Seal used PPE in a bag.

  • Dispose of asbestos at an Auckland Council approved waste facility—don’t even think about the kerbside bin.

🧯 Why You Should Just Hire the Pros

Removing asbestos isn’t like pulling out a few weeds. One wrong move and you could expose your whānau to fibres that cause mesothelioma or lung cancer. That’s not just scare talk—it’s backed by science.

Auckland has loads of certified asbestos removal companies who can:

  • Identify and test the material

  • Remove the fence safely

  • Handle transport and disposal

  • Provide clearance certificates

It’s also likely to increase your property value, especially if you’re selling or renovating.

✅ Final Thoughts

If you’ve got an asbestos fence in Auckland, take it seriously. It’s not just an eyesore—it’s a potential health hazard. Whether you DIY (under the legal limit) or bring in the experts, doing it by the book protects you, your family, and your neighbours.

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