Arranging a residential asbestos survey in Australia is straightforward — but it’s important to follow the correct process to ensure safety, legality, and accurate results. Below is a step-by-step guide covering how to arrange one, who to contact, what to expect, and what happens after the survey.

1. Confirm Whether a Survey Is Needed

You should arrange a residential asbestos survey if:

• Your home was built before 1990 (as asbestos materials were widely used in Australia before that time).
• You’re planning renovations, maintenance, or demolition.
• You’ve discovered suspect materials (fibrous sheeting, eaves, vinyl tiles, lagging, insulation, etc.).
• You’re buying or selling a property and need asbestos information for due diligence.
• There’s damage, leaks, or fire that may have disturbed asbestos materials.

Even if you’re not renovating, a survey helps you understand where asbestos is located so you can manage it safely.

2. Engage a Competent Asbestos Assessor or Occupational Hygienist

You must not test or sample asbestos yourself.
Hire a qualified asbestos assessor or licensed asbestos surveyor, who can:

• Identify and assess asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) safely.
• Take samples for laboratory analysis (using a NATA-accredited lab).
• Prepare a detailed Asbestos Survey Report or Asbestos Register.

How to find licensed professionals:

State/Territory Work Health & Safety Regulators maintain lists of licensed asbestos assessors. Go to the relevant WorkSafe website in each state or territory.

3. The Survey Process

Here’s what typically happens during a residential asbestos survey:

Stage	What Happens	Notes
Initial consultation	The assessor will discuss your property’s age, past works, and areas of concern.	Provide any renovation or building records you have.
Site inspection	A visual inspection of all accessible areas: ceilings, walls, eaves, flooring, fences, roofing, insulation, etc.	The surveyor identifies materials that may contain asbestos.
Sampling	Small samples are safely taken (if necessary) for lab testing.	Don’t attempt this yourself; the surveyor seals the area afterward.
Laboratory analysis	Samples go to a NATA-accredited lab for confirmation.	Results take 1–3 business days.
Report & register	You receive a detailed Asbestos Survey Report identifying all ACMs, condition, and management recommendations.	Includes photos, risk ratings, and safe handling advice.
Recommendations	The assessor advises on whether to leave in place (manage), encapsulate, or remove via licensed contractor.	Safe if in good condition and not disturbed.

 

4. After the Survey — What to Do Next

Once you have the report:

• Keep it on file – especially if selling, renting, or planning renovations.
• Don’t disturb asbestos materials – cutting, sanding, drilling, or demolishing can release fibres.
• Engage a licensed asbestos removalist if the report recommends removal.
• Notify your tradespeople before they start any work — they must know where asbestos is located.
• If you plan to demolish, you’ll need a Clearance Certificate from a licensed asbestos assessor once removal is complete.