Before the late 1980s, asbestos was widely used in Australian construction due to its durability and fire resistance. Today, we know it poses serious health risks, especially when fibers become airborne. If you’re a homeowner or looking to buy a property, an asbestos survey is essential for safety. But what is the asbestos inspection price you should expect to pay? This guide breaks down the costs, factors influencing pricing, and the importance of professional services.
Why Is an Asbestos Inspection Important?
There are many reasons why one is needed to check for asbestos.
- Health Hazards: Prolonged exposure to asbestos results in mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, among other serious respiratory diseases.
- Legal Adherence: In Australian law, it is a legal requirement that property owners manage the risks of asbestos, particularly for commercial property.
- Demolition and Refurbishment: When refurbishing, touching materials that have asbestos can release harmful fibres into the air.
- Real Estate Transactions: A test can verify whether asbestos is present in the property and assist in determining what management or removal steps should be followed before purchasing or selling a house.
Factors That Influence Asbestos Inspection Price
Several factors determine the cost of an asbestos inspection, including:
1. Type of Inspection
Different types of asbestos inspections vary in price:
- Visual Regular Inspections: To look at any of the asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), the professional inspector will examine the building visually. Such a service will cost an average of $250 to $400.
- Asbestos Sample Testing: The inspector can take a sample to be tested in the lab, which can range from $40 to $140 per sample, if there are suspicious materials.
- Large-scale asbestos surveys: These samples involve extensive testing, reporting, and potentially air monitoring. Costs typically range from $400 to $900, depending on property size and complexity.
2. Property Size and Location
More extensive properties are more expensive to inspect due to the fact that more time and labor are required. Furthermore, transportation charges may be incurred in case the property is located far away.
3. Number of Samples Collected
There is an additional fee for every sample taken for examination. The total amount rises with the number of samples required.
4. Urgency of the Inspection
You will be charged extra to get an emergency or same-day asbestos check. Emergency checks are different from standard services since they can be charged between 30% and 50% more.
Understanding the Different Types of Asbestos Reports
Depending on your needs, you may require one or more of the following reports:
- Pre-Purchase Inspections – Before buying a property, a thorough asbestos inspection can prevent unexpected expenses and health risks.
- Testing Prior to Bathroom and Kitchen Renovations – Since asbestos is often found in old tiles, adhesives, and wall sheeting, testing is critical before starting any renovations.
- Asbestos Audits, Asbestos Registers, and Management Plans – Essential for commercial properties, these reports document asbestos locations and outline management strategies.
- Lead in the Home and Work Environment – Since lead exposure poses similar health risks, comprehensive environmental testing may include lead assessments.
- Asbestos Sample Testing – Individual material samples are tested in a laboratory to confirm the presence of asbestos.
- Asbestos Remediation Cost – If asbestos is found, understanding the cost of remediation and removal is crucial for budgeting.
- Asbestos Test Kit – While DIY kits are available, they lack the accuracy and safety of professional testing.
How Much Does Asbestos Removal Cost?
The amount and quality of asbestos material will dictate the cost of removal in case asbestos is present.
1. Friable Asbestos Removal
Friable asbestos is extremely dangerous and has to be dealt with under special protocols. Depending on area and intricacy, the cost per square meter can vary between $50 to $150.
2. Non-Friable Asbestos Removal
Though less dangerous, non-friable asbestos also should be handled properly. The average cost of removal is between $25 and $80 per square metre.
3. Full House Asbestos Removal
Total asbestos removal costs range from $15,000 to $30,000, particularly for homes that are older and contain asbestos ceilings, walls, and floors.
DIY vs. Professional Asbestos Inspections
To be frugal, some residents investigate the option of employing an asbestos test kit. Although do-it-yourself kits cost anywhere from $30 to $100, they come with significant drawbacks:
Limited Accuracy: Without expert analysis, a do-it-yourself test might not be definitive.
Safety Hazards: It could be dangerous to handle suspected asbestos products without protective gear.
Legal Non-Compliance: Renovations, demolitions, and occupational compliance all require official asbestos reports from certified professionals.
Working with an expert ensures proper identification, safety, and compliance with Australian standards for asbestos.
How to Choose a Reliable Asbestos Inspection Service
Have the following in mind when selecting an asbestos inspection service:
- Certification: Ensure the company is licensed and accredited.
- expertise: Identify professionals who possess sufficient experience in locating and testing for asbestos.
- Reputation: To ensure reliability, look at reviews and testimonials.
- All-inclusive Services: Select a supplier who offers asbestos management plans, sample testing, and inspections.
Enviro Health offers professional and trustworthy asbestos assessment services for the protection of your business or property.
Breaking Down Asbestos Inspection Price: What to Expect and Factors to Consider
An investment in an asbestos inspection is required for the safety of your property and health. It pays back safety, peace of mind, and legality, but at a cost that depends on the size of the property, type of inspection, and the number of samples required.
Make a plan to get an asbestos test today if you’re considering remodeling, purchasing a property, or even just ensuring that all is well. Detecting problems with asbestos early on could spare you the cost of removal and your health in the years to come.