This information is tailored for homeowners in Penrith, the Blue Mountains, the Hawkesbury, and Blacktown who are currently in the midst of renovations or significant clean-ups. If you've encountered old sheeting or lining and have questions about asbestos, particularly whether it might contain asbestos and if it can be disposed of in a skip bin, read on.
Quick answer: if you suspect it may be asbestos, do not place it in a skip bin and cease any further work on it. It's essential to have it assessed, safely removed by a licensed professional, and then contact us before arranging a skip for the remainder of your clean-up. We will guide you through the necessary steps and ensure everything is handled appropriately.
Identifying Potential Asbestos in Your Home
Quick answer: visual inspection is not reliable. If your home was constructed before 1990 and you are uncertain about the nature of the sheeting, lining, or ceiling materials, treat it as if it contains asbestos until it has been tested.
Asbestos was widely used in Australian homes until its complete ban at the end of 2003. In properties built before 1990, it is often found in:
- Fibro cement sheeting — either flat or corrugated, both indoors and outdoors
- Textured “popcorn” or stipple ceilings
- Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive beneath them
- Linings in eaves, bathrooms, and laundry areas
- Old roof sheeting and guttering
- Insulation around old pipes and flues
The danger arises when asbestos is disturbed. Activities such as sanding, cutting, or drilling can release harmful fibres into the air. If the material is intact and left undisturbed, the risk is significantly lower. If you are doubtful, halt any work immediately and seek confirmation from an accredited assessor or via a lab test. SafeWork NSW provides resources to locate a licensed assessor, and the testing process is generally affordable.
Understanding the Risks of Disposing of Asbestos in a Skip
Quick answer: disposing of asbestos in a skip bin is illegal and poses significant risks to you, our drivers, and future sites.
Asbestos that is loose or improperly handled cannot be placed in any open skip, bag, or general bin. The fibres pose a danger — and the process of loading, transporting, and unloading an open bin creates disturbances that can release these harmful fibres. This is why it is crucial to have asbestos removed and contained properly by a licensed professional before any disposal can occur.
Essential Steps to Take Before Ordering a Skip Bin
If you suspect you have found asbestos, follow these steps before booking a skip bin:
- Cease any disturbance. Do not sand, cut, drill, or break the material. Ensure the area remains clear.
- Confirm the presence of asbestos. An accredited assessor or a lab test will provide clarity on what you are dealing with and the appropriate removal strategy.
- Engage a licensed removalist. In NSW, homeowners can remove small amounts (under 10 square metres) of non-friable (bonded) asbestos from their properties. For larger quantities or any friable (crumbly) asbestos, it is legally required to hire a licensed removalist. Even for smaller jobs, a licensed professional has the necessary equipment and disposal solutions, making it worthwhile to reach out to them. Check SafeWork NSW for the latest regulations.
- Consult with us early. Contact us before arranging a skip — we will assist you in determining the next steps and ensure your skip bin is suitable for the remaining work.
How Ezi-Bin Facilitates Your Asbestos Management
While we specialise in skip bin hire and are not licensed asbestos removalists, we are here to support you through the process. If you believe you may have asbestos, reach out to us. We can assist in guiding you towards safe removal, help you navigate the necessary steps, and arrange a skip for the rest of your renovation or clean-up once the asbestos has been correctly handled.
It's advisable to contact us before ordering a skip bin to avoid the situation where you fill a bin only to discover it cannot be collected. If you're uncertain about the size of the skip bin you require, our guide on selecting the right size is an excellent starting point. We also provide insights on choosing between a bag and a bin, helping you make the right decision from the outset.
Who Should Seek Professional Help
If you're managing a commercial property, undertaking a demolition, or dealing with a substantial volume of asbestos, different rules apply. In such cases, you will need a licensed asbestos assessor to oversee the work — contact SafeWork NSW directly. If you are situated outside Penrith, the Blue Mountains, the Hawkesbury, or Blacktown, please call us to confirm whether we service your area.
Common Questions About Asbestos Disposal
Is it permissible to dispose of asbestos in a skip bin?
No. Asbestos cannot be placed in any open skip, bag, or general bin — it is illegal and unsafe due to the disturbance of fibres during loading and tipping. It must be removed and contained by a licensed removalist first. If you suspect you have asbestos, contact us for guidance on the appropriate steps.
How can I determine if it's asbestos?
It is not possible to identify asbestos just by looking at it. If your home was built before 1990 and you are unsure about the materials used in sheeting, lining, or ceilings, treat it as asbestos until confirmed by an accredited assessor or a lab test. SafeWork NSW can assist you in finding a licensed assessor.
Is a licensed removalist always necessary?
In NSW, homeowners can remove up to 10 square metres of non-friable (bonded) asbestos from their own properties. For larger quantities or any friable (crumbly) asbestos, hiring a licensed removalist is a legal requirement. Even for smaller jobs, utilising a licensed removalist is advisable as they provide the right protection and disposal methods, offering peace of mind.
Can Ezi-Bin handle the removal of asbestos for me?
If you suspect you may have asbestos, reach out to us. We can assist you in navigating the process of safe removal and then arrange a skip for the rest of your clean-up once the asbestos has been appropriately handled.
What immediate actions should I take if I suspect asbestos?
Cease all work and avoid disturbing the material — do not sand, cut, or drill. Keep the area clear, have it assessed, and contact us. We will guide you through the next steps before you order a skip bin.
Ezi-Bin offers skip bin hire throughout Penrith, the Blue Mountains, the Hawkesbury, Blacktown, and surrounding suburbs in Western Sydney. Unsure where to begin? Get in touch, and we’ll assist you.
Original Article First Published At: Think You Have Asbestos? What to Do Before You Order a Skip
