The Asbestos Removal Process: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Knowing you have a property that contains asbestos can be an unsettling experience for any residential or commercial property owner. However, with the right team at your side, knowing what to expect regarding the asbestos removal process will ease any worries.

AR Plus is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring the project is finished to the highest standards.

Step 1: Testing and Planning

Confirming whether any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are on the site is the first step in any asbestos removal project.

Though the material is hard to spot with the naked eye, our team are familiar with common locations:

• Popcorn ceilings
• Cement sheeting
• Roof shingles and sidings
• Ceiling tiles
• Caulking
• Vinyl flooring
• Insulation (Ceiling, wall, pipe or furnace)

Samples will be taken to confirm the presence of ACMS. Following confirmation, a comprehensive strategy that complies with stringent health and safety requirements (Approved Code of Practice Worksafe NZ and Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016) will be implemented.

Step 2: Containment

Our licensed (Class A and B asbestos removal certified) professionals will establish a negative pressure containment zone in the affected areas. All areas, including walls, doorways, and floors, are encapsulated using heavy-duty plastic sheeting to prevent asbestos fibres from escaping into the surrounding space.

If you have an HVAC or heat pump, this will be shut off to prevent the circulation of dirty air. The air within these containment zones is continuously cleaned using a HEPA air filtration unit to provide another safeguard.

Step 3: Removal

Following containment, our staff, fully equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), will start removing the asbestos. There are several methods to remove the fibres, one of which is wetting, as extra moisture minimises dust and allows asbestos removalists to chip away at the affected area gradually.

It is essential to know that all traces of asbestos must be physically removed from the space. AR Plus is skilled in handling this safely, ensuring that all asbestos waste is collected and disposed of appropriately.

Step 4: Restoration

Once the asbestos is safely removed, we thoroughly clean the work area using HEPA vacuums and extensive wiping. AR Plus conducts air quality testing to establish that the environment is safe and that asbestos fibres are undetectable.

For any asbestos removal and ceiling restorations, AR Plus can also plaster, texture, paint, apply decorative finishes, install Gib Cove and handle domestic and commercial projects.

Step 5: Handover

Lastly, we’ll walk you through the post-removal procedures and answer any questions you might have. Rest assured, our work comes with a 5-year guarantee, and every job gains compulsory air clearance from an I.A.N.Z.-registered laboratory, meaning peace of mind for you, your family, or your staff.

FAQs about Asbestos Removal

Q: How much time does it take to remove asbestos?
A: The amount and location of the asbestos will determine how long the process will take. AR Plus will provide a detailed project timeline during the initial consultation.

Q: What happens to the asbestos materials when removed?
A: The debris is transported to an authorised disposal facility. We handle all aspects of safe disposal according to New Zealand regulations.

Q: Can I stay at home during the removal process?
A: Individuals are required to vacate the premises while the work is being done for safety concerns.

Ready for a Safe and Stress-Free Asbestos Removal?

AR Plus is committed to providing expert, hassle-free solutions for healthier, happier spaces!

Get a free quote today by giving us a call!