Residential properties containing asbestos are bought, sold, leased, and rented every day in Australia — it is still found in 1 in 3 homes. If a home was built before 1990 it can contain asbestos.
As exposure to asbestos fibres can cause cancer, knowing the location of asbestos in a home can help people stay safe. For example, it can ensure the right action is taken to prevent asbestos exposure when renovations or maintenance work is carried out.
In all Australian states and territories, there are obligations to disclose the presence of asbestos in a residential property to buyers and renters. The requirements differ between jurisdictions, with the most stringent currently being the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). In the ACT, an asbestos assessment report or, if that is not available, generic asbestos advice for residential properties being sold or leased must be provided to a prospective buyer or renter.
Remember, the presence of asbestos in a property should not discourage a person from buying or renting it. Asbestos becomes dangerous when damaged, disturbed or deteriorating.
To find out more about the importance of disclosing the presence of asbestos in a home, view the resources available on the Asbestos Safety and Eradication website. your text here ...