Buyer guide
Asbestos in older Brisbane homes: what a building inspection can and cannot tell you
A building inspection does not test for asbestos. What it can do is flag materials that may contain it, such as old fibro sheeting, eaves and vinyl floor tiles, so you can decide whether to get a licensed assessor in.
A building inspection does not test for asbestos. What it can do is flag materials that may contain it, such as old fibro sheeting, eaves and vinyl floor tiles, so you can decide whether to get a licensed assessor in.
Which homes are likely to have it
Queensland Government guidance is that homes built or renovated before 1990 are likely to contain some asbestos products. In Brisbane, that includes many post war homes and plenty of renovated Queenslanders.
Where it often turns up
- Fibro wall and eave sheeting
- Wet area wall linings behind tiles
- Vinyl floor tiles and the backing of old sheet vinyl
- Old roof sheeting, fences and sheds
What to do
If our report flags possible asbestos and you plan to renovate, get a licensed assessor to sample and test before any work. Undisturbed material in good condition is generally lower risk, but never drill, cut or sand it yourself.