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Beechboro · North-East PerthAsbestos fence removal
Old grey sheet fences are the most common asbestos job in Perth. They come out whole, footings and all, and the site is left clear for a new fence.
- Written, fixed quotes
- WorkSafe WA licensed removalists
- Approved disposal, every time
How to spot an asbestos fence
Fences put up before the mid-1980s are very likely to be asbestos cement. The classic Perth version is the corrugated "Super Six" sheet: grey, hard and brittle, with deep, rounded ridges and capping made of the same material. Newer fibre-cement fences usually have flatter ridges and metal capping.
Looks only get you so far. A lab test of a small sample is the only way to know for sure.
Why the whole sheet has to come out
Perth fences sit in sandy soil, and a good third of each sheet is buried. Snapping a sheet off at ground level leaves broken asbestos in the ground. A proper removal digs each sheet out in one piece, keeps it wet and wraps it straight away.
Dividing fences and neighbours
If the fence is on a boundary, speak to your neighbour before you book. Under WA's dividing fences rules, neighbours commonly share the cost of a replacement fence, and it's easier to agree on timing up front.
After it's gone
Once the old sheets are out and the area is cleared, you're ready for a new fence. Many removalists can quote the replacement at the same time if you ask.
What affects the quote
Every asbestos fence removal in Perth is quoted on site, and a few things make the biggest difference:
- Length of the run. More panels means more digging, wrapping and disposal.
- Access. A clear side gate is quicker than carrying sheets through the house or over garden beds.
- Condition. Badly cracked or broken sheets take more care to keep intact.
- What's against it. Retaining, sleepers, sheds or garden beds built up against the fence need to be cleared first.
- Disposal. Wrapping, transport and tip fees should all be in the written quote.
What happens on the day
The work area is set up and the sheets are wetted down to keep fibres out of the air. Capping comes off first, then each sheet is dug out around its base and lifted out whole. Sheets are wrapped in heavy plastic and labelled on the spot, and any broken pieces in the soil are picked up. The waste goes straight to an approved disposal site.
Fence removal on rentals and sales
Landlords, property managers and sellers often need an old fence dealt with before a lease or settlement. A written quote and disposal paperwork make it easy to show the job was done properly.
Common questions
Can I take an asbestos fence down myself?
Only up to 10 square metres of bonded asbestos. A typical Perth boundary fence is well over that, so it needs a licensed removalist.
Is a cracked fence dangerous?
A cracked or leaning sheet is more likely to release fibres if it's knocked, cut or breaks further. Don't try to patch or pressure clean it; get it assessed.
How long does fence removal take?
Most standard residential fences are done in a day. Long runs, tight access or very weathered sheets can take longer.
Do I need to be home for the removal?
Not always. As long as there's access to the fence and you've talked to your neighbour, many jobs can go ahead while you're out.
Can a new fence go up straight away?
Yes. Once the asbestos is removed and the area is cleared, a fencing contractor can install the new fence. Many removalists can quote the replacement at the same time.
Do I need council approval to remove an asbestos fence?
Removal of a residential fence by a licensed removalist doesn't usually need a separate council approval, but check with your council if it's part of a larger building or demolition job.
Ready to get rid of it? Call now.
Talk to a licensed removalist. Free, fixed written quotes.