Safe Asbestos Disposal in Wellington - What You Need to Know

When it comes to dealing with asbestos in the Wellington region, proper disposal isn’t just good practice - it’s your legal and moral responsibility. At Asbestos Removal NZ, we are committed to ensuring your project runs smoothly, safely and in full compliance with New Zealand’s strict regulations.

Why safe disposal matters

Asbestos-containing material (ACM) is a known health hazard. Fibre release from damaged or disturbed material can lead to serious diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Beyond health risks, failing to manage or dispose of asbestos properly can lead to significant legal penalties under the WorkSafe New Zealand regime.

In the Wellington region, you also need to adhere to the Wellington City Council Solid Waste Management and Minimisation Bylaw 2020, which governs transport, disposal and licensing of waste.

What the regulations require

Here are key regulatory requirements to be aware of:

Under the Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016, asbestos waste must be placed in a sealed container, clearly marked, and disposed of in a place approved by the territorial authority.
Licensed specialists: If you’re removing more than 10m² of non-friable ACM, or any amount of friable asbestos, the work must be done by a licensed removalist.
In Wellington, when disposing of asbestos, you must submit an “Application for Disposal of Special Waste – Asbestos” at the landfill, ensure the material is moist before sealing, double-wrapped if contaminated soil, accompanied by a permit, and the vehicle must go through a wheel-wash.

Our process – how we handle disposal at Asbestos Removal NZ

At Asbestos Removal NZ we follow a clear, compliant process to make asbestos disposal straightforward for you:

1. Survey & Identification

We perform an inspection (if not already done) to identify any ACM and determine whether it’s friable or non-friable.

2. Quotation & Planning

We outline the disposal steps, including transport and approved destination, and provide a transparent quote.

3. Safe Removal & Packaging

According to regulation we ensure the material is contained, sealed appropriately, clearly marked, and handled with PPE and controlled methods.

4. Transport to Licensed Facility

We use vehicles and routes in accord with local bylaws, and inform the disposal site ahead of arrival.

5. Disposal at Approved Site

We deliver to an authorised landfill/transfer-station that accepts asbestos, following the required unloading, wheel-wash, permit submission, etc.

6. Documentation

We provide you with all necessary paperwork - certificates of disposal, permits, and chain of custody - so your records remain complete.

Why choose us in Wellington?

Specialist expertise: We focus solely on asbestos removal and disposal, so we understand the nuances of Wellington’s regulations and approved disposal sites.
Local compliance & approvals: Because we operate in Wellington, we know the local landfill requirements, the permit processes and the waste-operator rules under the Council’s bylaw.
End-to-end service: From initial assessment to final disposal, we manage each step and relieve you of headaches.
Safety and environment focused: We treat your project with the utmost care-for your safety, others’ safety, and environmental integrity.

What you should do if you suspect asbestos

Don’t assume it’s safe to just “remove and dump” the material. Until proven otherwise, typical older materials (roof sheeting, eaves, ceiling tiles, floors) may contain ACM.
If you’re a homeowner or landlord: you may not be a PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking), but if any contractor or worker works with ACM, your property becomes a workplace and health & safety duties apply.
Always call us first to arrange a survey. If removal is required, let the licensed professionals handle it.
Ensure disposal is to an approved facility and documentation is complete - avoid the risk of illegal dumping or non-compliant disposal which can lead to fines and liability.

FAQs

Q1: Can I dispose of a small amount of asbestos myself?

A: Even small amounts must be handled correctly. For example, waste must be sealed and disposed at an approved site.

Q2: What’s the difference between friable and non-friable asbestos?

A: Friable asbestos is material that can be easily crumbled and release fibres (higher risk). Non-friable is bound in a matrix (e.g., cement sheet) and poses lower risk if intact—but still needs care.

Q3: Which sites in Wellington accept asbestos waste?

A: You must use a landfill/transfer station approved for asbestos. In Wellington the Council provides the “Application for Disposal of Special Waste – Asbestos” form and sets conditions (moist, sealed, etc).

Q4: What happens if I don’t comply?

A: Non-compliance can lead to significant fines under the Regulations. For example an individual may face up to NZ$10,000 for disposal breaches.

Final Word

If you are planning renovations, demolition, changing roof sheeting or working on an older building in Wellington, the safe disposal of asbestos is critical. At Asbestos Removal NZ we make sure that every step - from assessment to final landfill drop off — is done in compliance with both national law and Wellington-specific requirements.

Don’t take risks with asbestos. Protect your property, people and peace of mind. Contact us today for an inspection or free quote and let us handle the disposal responsibly.