Asbestos

Asbestos is still found in many buildings and soils across Aotearoa, particularly those built or refurbished before 2000. Managing asbestos safely is essential to protect people, meet regulatory requirements, and reduce long-term site risks. 

PDP supports clients across residential, commercial, and industrial environments with clear, practical, and evidence-based asbestos solutions.

Our licensed asbestos assessors, surveyors, and contaminated land specialists provide independent advice and support throughout the entire asbestos management process. We help you understand what asbestos-containing materials are present, how to manage them safely, and what steps are needed to meet WorkSafe obligations.

How we help:

Identification, surveys, and assessment

Accurate identification is the foundation of safe asbestos management. Our team undertakes detailed assessments to confirm the presence, location, and condition of asbestos in buildings and soils.

Our services include:

  • Asbestos management surveys for occupied buildings
  • Pre-Refurbishment and Pre-Demolition surveys
  • Desktop reviews and preliminary risk assessments
  • Soil asbestos inspections and sampling
  • Activity-based sampling
  • Tier 2 human health risk assessments
  • Asbestos Management Plans
  • Re-inspection visits and condition monitoring
  • Site consultation and technical advice

These assessments help building owners, contractors, councils, and developers make confident decisions and plan work safely.

Removal, compliance and monitoring

PDP provides independent oversight and monitoring throughout asbestos removal works to ensure safety and compliance with New Zealand regulations.

We support clients with:

  • Asbestos Removal Control Plan review
  • Asbestos Removal Statement of Works
  • On-site support and advice for asbestos contractors
  • Independent air monitoring during and after removal
  • Daily observance of asbestos removal works
  • Clearance inspections for Class A and Class B works
  • Certificates of Reoccupation

Our approach helps reduce exposure risk, maintain compliance, and provide assurance that removal has been completed safely.

Management and training

Asbestos often requires ongoing management, particularly across large property portfolios, operational facilities, and public buildings.

We provide:

  • Asbestos awareness training for staff and contractors
  • Contract management and oversight
  • Long-term advisory services for councils, building owners, developers, and industry

This helps organisations understand their responsibilities, meet Health and Safety at Work (Asbestos) Regulations 2016 requirements, and maintain safe operating environments.

Why asbestos is still an issue

Although New Zealand introduced a full ban on importing asbestos-containing products in 2016, many older buildings still contain asbestos in materials such as roofing, cladding, insulation, vinyl flooring, adhesives, and decorative finishes. These materials remain safe if undisturbed, but any refurbishment, demolition, or intrusive work can release harmful fibres.

This legacy means asbestos management continues to be critical across New Zealand’s built environment. PDP’s experience ensures clients receive clear guidance and practical solutions that reduce risk and protect people.

Why work with PDP

PDP is one of Aotearoa’s most experienced environmental consultancies, with decades of proven experience in asbestos identification, monitoring, and management. Our multidisciplinary team brings together licensed assessors, environmental scientists, and contaminated land practitioners, supported by strong project management and national coverage.

We provide independent, evidence-based advice that supports safe decision-making and leads to better outcomes for people and place.

Our Asbestos Specialists

PDP Staff Member Erin Richards

Erin Richards

Technical Director
PDP Staff Member Gerard Stark

Gerard Stark

Technical Director
PDP Staff Member Serena Rhodes

Nerena Rhodes

Technical Director
PDP Staff Member Scott Wilson

Scott Wilson

Technical Director
PDP Staff Member Andy Kindleysides

Andy Kindleysides

Service Leader

Manage asbestos risks with expert guidance from our licensed specialists.