How to Identify Asbestos in Your Property
Asbestos was once a common material in Australian homes and buildings, especially before the 1990s. While it was widely used for its fireproof and insulating properties, it’s now known to pose serious health risks. Knowing how to identify asbestos early can help prevent exposure and ensure safe removal.
If you’re in Adelaide and think your property may contain asbestos, this guide will help you recognise where it might be hiding—and why
cheap asbestos removal doesn’t mean compromising on safety.
Where is Asbestos Commonly Found?
In many older Adelaide homes and commercial buildings, asbestos can still be found in:
- Roof sheeting and gutters
- Eaves and soffits
- Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives
- Fencing and cladding
- Insulation around pipes and hot water systems
- Wall linings and backing boards
If your property was built before 1990, there’s a strong chance that some of these materials contain asbestos. But identifying it isn’t as simple as it looks—many asbestos-containing products closely resemble safer alternatives.
Signs You Might Have Asbestos in Your Home or Business
Here are some indicators that may suggest asbestos is present:
- Age of the building: Properties built before the 1990s are more likely to contain asbestos.
- Brittle or fibrous sheeting: Older cement sheeting with white fibres may indicate asbestos cement.
- Old vinyl flooring: Some vinyl tiles and black adhesives used in older homes can contain asbestos.
- Cracking or weathered materials: Asbestos-containing materials degrade over time, especially outdoors.
But to confirm its presence, professional
asbestos testing is essential.
Why DIY Asbestos Identification is Risky
Attempting to identify asbestos without the proper training or safety gear can be extremely dangerous. Disturbing suspected asbestos materials can release harmful fibres into the air, increasing the risk of diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
If you’re unsure whether a material contains asbestos, your safest option is to contact professionals for testing and inspection. For Adelaide residents, our
residential asbestos services cover everything from identification to safe removal and disposal.
What to Do if You Find Asbestos
Once asbestos is confirmed, the next step is to have it removed safely. At Total Asbestos Services, we offer cheap asbestos removal without compromising on safety, efficiency, or environmental compliance. Whether you're managing a home or business property, our licenced team is trained to handle both small- and large-scale jobs across Adelaide.
We also provide
commercial asbestos services for offices, factories, schools, and industrial sites—helping businesses remain compliant with workplace health and safety regulations.
Don’t Delay—Protect Your Property and Health Today
Asbestos is not something to take lightly. Whether you’re renovating, buying, or maintaining a property in Adelaide, identifying and removing asbestos is crucial for health and safety. Remember, visible signs aren’t always enough—you need professional assessment to be certain.
If you suspect asbestos in your home or building, don’t risk it. Get expert help with <testing> and removal services you can trust. Visit our website or call (08) 8234 1282 to book an inspection or removal. Trust the team at Total Asbestos Services for safe, affordable solutions that protect your family, staff, and property.
