Once the ACT Government purchases an affected property, it will begin the process of demolition and site remediation.
Prior to any demolition activity the ACT Government and/or contractors work with neighbours and the community to inform them of the works and safety arrangements in place.
Where the ACT Government is planning a demolition on a block that is Unit Titled and/or comprises of a shared party wall with a non-affected property, additional consultation and authorisation steps will be undertaken with the relevant surrounding residents, Strata Management firm and Owner Corporation members prior to commencement of works. The Loose Fill Coordination Team (Coordination Team) will ensure that all relevant parties are kept appropriately informed and all requirements as per the Unit Titles (Management) Act 2011 are met.
Each site is overseen by a principal contractor, independent licensed asbestos assessor and WorkSafe ACT. Experienced licensed professionals undertake the removal and demolition works.
After the asbestos has been removed, the house demolished and the soil testing complete, these properties are deregistered and offered for resale.
Demolition process and timing
Dependent on the size, complexities and number of dwellings on the one block, removing an affected house generally takes around 12 weeks, which includes preparation, removal, and remediation of the block. The timeline is highly dependent on the particular site conditions and the weather. A general guide is:
- 20 working days for planning and assessment
- 5 working days for site set up
- 8 working days for internal asbestos removal
- 7 working days for external structural demolition
- 15 days for site remediation and soil testing
- 4 working days for site wrap up
See the complete demolition process.
Waste disposal
There are rules for the appropriate disposal of waste during the demolition process.
Private demolition
Private demolition may be the best pathway for some homeowners and the ACT Government is supportive of this option. Private demolition means that the demolition and remediation of a property is not carried out under the buyback program , but instead privately organised by the homeowner. If a homeowner decides to pursue this option, it is their responsibility to engage a suitably qualified contactor and licensed asbestos assessor to conduct the work.
Fee relief for waste disposal is available to eligible homeowners
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