Loose-fill asbestos insulation

Loose-fill asbestos is also known as friable asbestos, meaning it can be crushed or made into powder. Over time, hazardous airborne fibres can move from the ceiling into living spaces.

Loose-fill asbestos insulation can't be identified just by looking at it. It needs to be tested and handled by professionals. 

 

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Legislation and regulation

The content on this page is based on the Home Building Act 1989. To learn more about the regulations and laws governing this topic, see the loose-fill asbestos insulation laws page.

Loose-fill Asbestos Program

The Loose-fill Asbestos Program is available to NSW residents whose homes have been confirmed to contain loose-fill asbestos insulation.

The NSW Government has determined that demolition, comprehensive site remediation and disposal is the best way to ensure the health and safety of the NSW community

When an affected property is purchased or demolished under the program, NSW Fair Trading supports homeowners through the entire process. 

The Program

There are options available if your home has tested positive for loose-fill asbestos insulation to have your property demolished and remediated.

Testing your property

Homeowners can arrange their own private sample testing by a licensed asbestos assessor and an accredited laboratory test, to detect loose-fill asbestos insulation. 

Remediation and demolition

The only way to completely remove loose-fill asbestos insulation in the home is through demolition of the building and remediation of the land.

Loose-fill Asbestos Insulation register

The Loose-fill Asbestos Insulation register is a record of homes in NSW that have tested positive and confirmed by NSW Fair Trading to contain loose-fill asbestos. The Home Building Act 1989 requires the NSW Government to maintain the register

 

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Learn more about loose-fill asbestos insulation

About loose-fill asbestos insulation

Loose-fill asbestos (also known as friable asbestos) is raw crushed asbestos, which was installed as ceiling insulation in an unknown number of pre-1980s NSW homes. Find out more about loose-fill asbestos insulation and helpful resources. 

Working in pre-1980 homes

Safety is always a priority. If you're working on or in a pre-1980 built home, make sure to check if loose-fill asbestos insulation is present before starting or quoting work. 

Loose-fill asbestos laws and regulations

Loose-fill asbestos insulation laws

Several laws were introduced to identify properties affected by loose-fill asbestos insulation and to protect residents, workers and communities. 

Mandatory tagging

If a property contains loose-fill asbestos insulation and has been added to the LFAI register, a warning sign must be displayed on the main switchboard.

Contact NSW Fair Trading

Online: Complaints and enquiries

Phone: 13 32 20 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am-5pm)

In-person: find a service centre

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