When you discover that your warehouse, factory or commercial building still has an old asbestos roof, it can be unsettling. Asbestos cement sheets were popular throughout New Zealand for decades because they were fire‑resistant and affordable.
However, modern health and safety laws have made it clear that asbestos has no place on a healthy, compliant building. In this guide we’ll explain the legal requirements for asbestos roof removal in Auckland, your responsibilities as a building owner, and how our team manages safe roof replacement.
Why Asbestos Needs Urgent Attention
Asbestos fibres become dangerous when they are disturbed and released into the air. Inhaling these fibres can lead to serious illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. In commercial settings the risks are compounded because staff, tenants and visitors could be exposed if an asbestos roof deteriorates or is accidentally damaged. That is why New Zealand’s Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 require businesses to identify and safely manage any asbestos on site.
Identification Is Mandatory
Under Regulation 10 of the Asbestos Regulations, any workplace built before 2000 must have an asbestos management plan if there is a reasonable chance that asbestos is present. An old corrugated roof from the 1970s or 1980s almost certainly contains asbestos. If you own or manage a building, you are classified as a PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking), and it is your responsibility to ensure a competent assessor tests the roof and prepares a management plan. Ignoring this requirement can result in hefty fines and even prosecution.
Legal Limits on DIY Removal
It is important to understand that property owners can only remove asbestos themselves in very limited circumstances. New Zealand law allows unlicensed people to remove up to ten square metres of non‑friable asbestos roofing over the entire life of the building. Non‑friable means the asbestos is bound into a cement sheet and does not crumble easily. Anything beyond ten square metres or any friable asbestos (where the fibres are loose or powdery) must be removed by a licensed asbestos removalist. If you decide to tackle a small repair yourself, you must still wear appropriate PPE, avoid cutting or drilling the sheets, and dispose of the waste at an approved hazardous waste facility. For most roofs the area and risk make DIY removal illegal.
Licensing Categories Explained
Asbestos removal licences fall into two categories. A Class A licence allows a contractor to remove any type of asbestos, including friable materials. A Class B licence covers non‑friable asbestos over ten square metres. Because most asbestos roofing in Auckland covers large areas and the sheets can become friable when old, removal jobs almost always require a licensed contractor. As the building owner you must check that the removalist holds the correct licence and complies with WorkSafe New Zealand requirements.
Your Responsibilities as a Building Owner
Once asbestos is discovered, you become responsible for managing the risk. This means you must:
- Sample and confirm the presence of asbestos and determine whether it is friable.
- Develop an asbestos management plan detailing where the asbestos is, how it will be controlled, and when it will be removed.
- Notify WorkSafe if the removal is considered Class A or will disturb friable asbestos. Air monitoring may also be required.
- Protect workers and occupants by ensuring removal takes place outside business hours or with adequate containment and ventilation, and providing PPE if necessary.
- Keep records of removal and clearance certificates to show future owners or tenants that the site is safe.
How Professional Asbestos Roof Removal Works
We know that the idea of asbestos removal can be daunting. Over the past five decades we have helped many Auckland businesses transition from dangerous asbestos roofs to safe, modern steel systems. Our process ensures compliance and minimises disruption.
Assessment and Planning
First we arrange a site visit with our asbestos surveyor. They take samples of the roof sheets and any underlying cladding to confirm the presence and extent of asbestos. The survey results inform our removal plan and allow us to give you an accurate proposal for replacement. We prepare a detailed scope of work including scheduling, safety requirements and contingency measures.
Installing Your New Roof
Once the clearance certificate is issued, we can begin reroofing. We check the roof structure for any decay or damage caused by the old asbestos sheets and complete repairs. Then we install a new long‑run steel roofing system engineered for New Zealand’s coastal and high‑rainfall conditions. Long‑run steel is lightweight, corrosion‑resistant and available in a range of profiles and colours. All fixings are corrosion‑resistant, and flashings and gutters are replaced to ensure your roof is weather‑tight and compliant.
Safety and Compliance Checks
Throughout the project we maintain clear communication and organise regular site inspections. After completion we arrange a final inspection with you and provide all necessary documentation, including producer statements and warranties for the new roof. We also offer maintenance programmes to keep your new roof in top condition and ensure it lasts for decades.
Common Questions About Asbestos Roof Removal
Is asbestos roof removal always necessary?
If your roof contains asbestos, removal is often the safest and most compliant option. Small, non‑friable areas can sometimes be encapsulated and left in place, but if the sheets are deteriorating or the roof area is larger than ten square metres, removal is recommended to eliminate health risks.
Can I leave an asbestos roof if it isn’t damaged?
Asbestos cement sheets are only safe when completely intact. Any movement, drilling or weathering can release fibres. Given Auckland’s climate and earthquake risk, we advise removal when the roof reaches the end of its life. Insurers may also refuse coverage on buildings with asbestos roofs.
How long does the removal and reroofing take?
The timeline varies with roof size and complexity. A small commercial building can often be completed within a week. Larger warehouses may require staged removal and reroofing over several weeks to maintain operations. We plan the work around your schedule to minimise disruption.
Will business operations need to stop?
We aim to keep your business running. Removal is usually scheduled outside of operating hours, and containment ensures adjacent areas remain safe. During installation we can work in sections to minimise downtime. For urgent situations or large complexes we might recommend temporary relocation, but we will discuss options with you well in advance.
Next Steps for Building Owners
If your building has an old corrugated roof and you suspect it contains asbestos, do not delay. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of fibre release and the greater the cost of emergency repairs. Contact our team to arrange a roof inspection and discuss your options. Our asbestos roof removal service includes licensed removal, structural inspection, and installation of a durable steel roof. You can also learn about our commercial roof removal and replacement services and explore our commercial roofing service for new roof installations in Auckland.For further reading on the importance of choosing licensed contractors, see our blog on Navigating Roofing Excellence: Understanding the Importance of Engaging Expert Contractors. When you are ready to make your building safer, get in touch and we will guide you through every step.
