Finding Asbestos in Soil During Demolition: What Homeowners Need to Know
One of the most challenging issues that can arise during a demolition project is the discovery of asbestos-containing material buried beneath the ground.
At a recent demolition project in Mermaid Beach, our team encountered unexpected asbestos fragments buried in the soil beneath a 1940s home. While this can be an unwelcome surprise for homeowners, it is not uncommon in older properties.
Why Is Asbestos Found in the Soil?
Decades ago, asbestos was widely used in Australian homes for roofing, wall sheeting and other building materials.
During construction, it was common practice for builders to dispose of offcuts by burying them beneath the slab or elsewhere on the property. At the time, the health risks of asbestos were not fully understood.
Today, these buried fragments can remain hidden until demolition or excavation begins.
Safe Asbestos Removal Is Essential
When asbestos is discovered in soil, it must be handled carefully by trained professionals following strict safety procedures.
Depending on the circumstances, asbestos fragments may be:
- Identified during excavation
- Carefully removed while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Placed into approved asbestos disposal bags
- Transported and disposed of at licensed facilities
Following the correct procedures helps protect workers, homeowners, neighbours and the surrounding environment.
Different Approaches Can Affect Project Costs
The method used to manage asbestos-contaminated soil can have a significant impact on demolition costs.
One option is to excavate and dispose of large volumes of soil. However, because asbestos-contaminated material must be transported to licensed disposal facilities, disposal costs can increase substantially.
Where appropriate and safe to do so, a more targeted removal approach may allow only the affected asbestos-containing material to be removed rather than unnecessarily disposing of large volumes of otherwise clean soil.
Every project is different, and the most suitable approach depends on the extent of the contamination and applicable safety requirements.
Experience Makes the Difference
Unexpected asbestos discoveries require experience, careful assessment and a thorough understanding of safe asbestos removal practices.
At Gold Coast Demolition and Asbestos, our experienced team manages asbestos discoveries in accordance with Queensland regulations, helping clients understand their options while keeping projects moving safely and efficiently.
Planning a Demolition of an Older Home?
If your property was built before the late 1980s, there is a possibility that asbestos-containing materials may be present, including in unexpected locations beneath the ground.
Gold Coast Demolition and Asbestos provides professional demolition and asbestos removal services across the Gold Coast. We can assess your property, explain the demolition process and help ensure any asbestos is managed safely and in compliance with current regulations.
Contact our team today for expert advice and an obligation-free demolition quote.