Did you know that 1 in 3 Australian homes contain asbestos? With home renovations on the rise, many Australian’s are purchasing homes built before 1985 with the intention of doing small renos through to complete rebuilds. Unfortunately, many people are taking on the risk of removing any asbestos themselves, simply because the cost of paying a professional removalist can eat into their renovation budget.
The Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency (ASEA) thinks that subsidies are needed to push home owners into having asbestos removed by professionals. ASEA CEO Peter Tighe has suggested that a small tax on building materials (a fraction of a percent) could be enough to subsidise the removal of asbestos from homes, and prevent owners from taking on the task themselves.
The proposed tax could be a game changer for Australian renovators, encouraging safer processes whilst allowing for better renovation budgets.
At Jim’s Building Inspections, we can conduct visual asbestos inspections before you buy a property – that way you can obtain an estimate of how much potential asbestos is in the home, and whether or not it is a sensible investment.
If you are looking to renovate your current home, Jim’s are able to complete asbestos sampling in order to confirm which areas contain asbestos. Without sampling, an asbestos removalist will assume that all potential risk zones contain asbestos. Sampling (followed by lab testing) is the only way to 100% confirm the presence of asbestos. Not only does the testing reveal where you have asbestos before renovating, it can also save you a lot of money as the removalists will only need to work on the confirmed areas (which could be half of what was identified as potential asbestos by a visual inspection).
To arrange an Asbestos Inspection or testing Call 131546 or visit www.jimsbuildinginspections.com.au today.
Conclusion
The proposed new tax initiative presents a significant step towards safeguarding both homeowners and the general public from the health risks associated with asbestos. By offering financial support for its removal, this tax could ease the burden on homeowners, ensuring safer living environments. Homeowners are encouraged to stay informed about the legislation and begin considering their options for asbestos removal before it becomes mandatory.
FAQs
The tax aims to help homeowners afford the removal of asbestos from their properties by providing financial support or rebates.
Asbestos is a hazardous material that poses serious health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Removing it ensures a safer living environment.
The tax will provide financial assistance to homeowners, making the costly process of asbestos removal more affordable.
While the tax is not mandatory, homeowners may be required to remove asbestos as part of upcoming regulations, and the tax could help with the costs.
Homes built before the 1990s are more likely to contain asbestos. A professional asbestos inspection can confirm its presence.
The tax may cover a portion of the cost, but homeowners may still need to contribute to the remaining amount depending on the specifics of the program.
Homeowners will need to apply through local government channels or agencies administering the tax rebate, once the initiative is finalized.
Asbestos exposure can lead to respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Search for certified asbestos removal contractors in your area through government websites or industry associations.