Can You Live in a House with Asbestos?

If your home was built before the mid-1980s in Australia, there’s a good chance it contains asbestos in some form. Understandably, many homeowners or renters feel concerned about what that means for their health. So, here’s the big question:

Can you live in a house with asbestos?

The short answer is yes, you can, if the asbestos is in good condition and left undisturbed.

What Is Asbestos and Why Was It Used?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in Australian construction materials from the 1940s to the 1980s due to its strength, fire resistance, and insulating properties. It was commonly found in:

  • Wall and ceiling linings (especially in fibro sheeting)
  • Roofing and eaves
  • Vinyl floor tiles and underlay
  • Cement pipes
  • External cladding
  • Fencing

It became clear in the late 20th century that asbestos fibres, when inhaled, can cause serious long-term health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. As a result, asbestos use was banned in Australia in 2003.

However, homes built before the ban still contain asbestos, particularly in bonded (non-friable) form.

Is It Safe to Live in a House with Asbestos?

Yes, but with conditions.

Asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed. If the material is in good condition and isn’t being cut, drilled, sanded, or otherwise damaged, the fibres will remain contained. Sealed or undamaged asbestos materials don’t release fibres into the air, which is when the health risk occurs.

Many Australians live safely in homes that still contain asbestos. Problems usually arise when homeowners start renovations or repairs without realising the material they’re disturbing contains asbestos.

When Is Asbestos a Risk?

Asbestos becomes a health hazard only when fibres are released and inhaled. This can happen when:

  • You cut or drill into asbestos sheeting
  • The material is cracked, broken, or deteriorating with age
  • Roofing or eaves are damaged by storms
  • You remove old floor tiles or vinyl backed with asbestos
  • Renovations or demolition work begin without proper precautions

Once airborne, asbestos fibres can lodge in the lungs, often without causing immediate symptoms. Health issues can take decades to develop.

How to Know If Your House Has Asbestos?

If your home was built before, 1990 particularly before 1985, it’s worth assuming that some materials may contain asbestos. The only way to confirm it is through asbestos testing by a licensed professional. They will:

  • Visually inspect areas of concern
  • Take samples if needed
  • Send samples to a lab for analysis
  • Provide a full report and recommendations

Trying to identify asbestos by sight alone is not reliable, it often looks identical to non-asbestos sheeting.

What Should You Do If Asbestos Is Present?

If asbestos is found in your home, here’s what you should do:

1. Leave It Alone (If It’s in Good Condition)

If the asbestos-containing materials are not damaged or deteriorating, the safest thing to do is nothing. Do not try to remove or disturb them yourself.

2. Avoid DIY Renovation or Repairs

Never sand, drill, or cut into materials that might contain asbestos. Even minor work like installing shelves or cutting into a ceiling can release fibres.

3. Get a Professional Inspection Before Renovating

Before starting any upgrades, renovations, or demolitions, book a professional asbestos inspection. They’ll tell you what’s safe and what needs removal.

4. Use Licensed Removalists When Needed

If asbestos needs to be removed, this must be done by a licensed asbestos removalist, especially for friable asbestos or large quantities. In many cases, removal is combined with broader demolition services to safely clear sites for renovation or rebuilding.

What If You’re Renting?

If you’re living in a rental property and suspect there’s asbestos, your landlord is legally responsible for ensuring the home is safe. You can request an inspection or raise the issue through your local tenancy authority if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can live in a house with asbestos safely. The material is only dangerous when disturbed or damaged. With proper awareness and precautions, it’s entirely possible to live in an older home without risk.

If you’re planning to renovate or demolish part of the property, always seek professional guidance first. Asbestos is not something to take chances with but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker.