When asbestos appears during a pre-demolition inspection in Brisbane, demolition work cannot proceed until it is safely removed. Disturbing asbestos during demolition can release fibres that pose serious health risks. Work must pause while licensed removal is arranged and completed in line with Queensland regulations.
At Next Gen Demolition, we handle asbestos discoveries as part of our standard pre-demolition process. Our team follows strict protocols to identify, contain, and remove asbestos before any demolition work begins, keeping your project on track and compliant with Work Health and Safety requirements.
Why Pre-Demolition Asbestos Inspections Are Important
Before any demolition begins in Queensland, asbestos must be identified so far as reasonably practicable. Many Brisbane homes and commercial buildings constructed before 1990 contain asbestos in roofing, wall cladding, floor tiles, pipe insulation and cement sheeting. Even properties that appear asbestos-free often contain hidden fibres in unexpected locations.
The Immediate Response When Asbestos Is Found
Once detected, a licensed asbestos removalist must handle friable asbestos (asbestos that can be crumbled or reduced to powder when dry) or non-friable asbestos above 10 m². Removal of this kind must also be notified to WorkSafe Queensland before work begins.
The inspection report details the location, type, and condition of asbestos-containing materials on site. No demolition equipment touches the property until removal is complete and the required clearance is issued.
Professional removal can involve:
- Setting up controlled or enclosed work areas
- Using water suppression to prevent fibre release
- Carefully removing materials without breakage
- Sealing asbestos waste in approved containers
- Transporting to licensed disposal facilities
- Air monitoring where required (e.g. friable removal)
How Asbestos Removal Affects Your Demolition Timeline
Small asbestos findings may add only a few days to your project. Larger or friable asbestos removals can take longer, especially where WorkSafe Queensland notification and air monitoring requirements apply.
Brisbane’s climate allows most demolition projects to proceed year-round once asbestos is cleared. We schedule removal and demolition sequentially to minimise delays.
Cost Implications of Asbestos Discovery
Removal costs vary based on material type, location, quantity, and whether removal is friable or non-friable. Bonded asbestos in good condition generally costs less to remove than friable asbestos that requires full containment and air monitoring.
Budget for licensed removal, waste disposal at an approved facility, and clearance inspections. These are legal requirements and protect workers and neighbouring properties.
What Happens After Asbestos Removal
After removal, a clearance inspection is carried out. For friable asbestos, this must be done by a licensed asbestos assessor. For non-friable asbestos, a competent person may perform the clearance (written clearance is not required for small amounts under 10 m²).
A “competent person” means someone with the appropriate training, qualifications or experience to identify asbestos, assess the condition of the material and confirm an area is clear after non-friable removal.
Only after the site is cleared can demolition begin. Next Gen Demolition coordinates the process, managing asbestos removal contractors and scheduling demolition to start immediately once clearance is confirmed.
Why You Can't Skip Asbestos Removal
Demolishing a structure containing asbestos can release fibres linked to serious respiratory diseases. WorkSafe Queensland can issue immediate stop-work orders, significant fines, and require cleanup if asbestos is handled unsafely. Serious or repeated breaches may lead to prosecution.
Legal consequences may include:
- Immediate stop-work orders
- Large fines for unsafe or unlicensed removal
- Liability for contamination cleanup
- Insurance and warranty breaches
- Prosecution for serious non-compliance
How Next Gen Demolition Handles Asbestos Discoveries
We treat every pre-1990 property in Brisbane as potentially containing asbestos until proven otherwise. Our thorough inspections identify problems before they cause delays or safety issues.
When asbestos is found, we coordinate licensed removal through our network of certified contractors. You get a single point of contact managing the entire process from inspection through to demolition.
Protecting Your Property During Asbestos Work
Removal work uses controlled methods that prevent contamination of surrounding areas. Where required, neighbouring properties are notified and we maintain strict site access controls.
Air monitoring may be used to confirm fibres are contained, particularly for friable removal. Weather conditions and wind direction are considered to maximise safety for nearby residents and businesses.
Safe Demolition Starts With Proper Asbestos Management
Discovering asbestos during pre-demolition inspections is common in Brisbane, but it doesn’t have to derail your project. Professional asbestos removal followed by compliant demolition work keeps your redevelopment moving safely and legally.
Next Gen Demolition manages the complete process, coordinating asbestos removal contractors and demolition to minimise delays while meeting all regulatory requirements. Our experience across Brisbane ensures your project proceeds smoothly from inspection through to site clearance. Contact us for an obligation free quote for your asbestos removal.