When people talk about home improvements, they usually picture fresh paint, shiny new windows, or maybe a roof that keeps the rain where it belongs. Rarely does anyone think about the darker side of homeownership: discovering asbestos. Yet for thousands of homeowners and property managers in Ireland, asbestos isn’t just a line in a building survey, it’s a serious health concern, and an unavoidable cost.
If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re staring at a report that mentions “asbestos containing materials” (ACMs) or you’ve stumbled across suspicious sheets of corrugated roofing in your shed. You’re wondering one thing: How much is this going to cost me?
This guide pulls no punches. We’ll cover the actual costs of asbestos removal in Ireland, why the numbers vary so much, and how to avoid being overcharged. Along the way, we’ll give you practical tips to keep yourself safe, avoid cowboy contractors, and make smart decisions that protect both your health and your wallet.
Why Asbestos Is A Serious Issue
Before diving into costs, it’s worth understanding why asbestos removal is such a big deal.
Asbestos was widely used in Irish homes and buildings between the 1940s and 1980s because it was cheap, strong, and fire-resistant. It turned up everywhere: roofing sheets, pipe insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, even textured wall coatings.
The problem? When asbestos fibres are released into the air and inhaled, they can cause serious diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These conditions don’t show up overnight, they can take decades to develop, but once they do, the consequences are devastating.
This isn’t about scare tactics; it’s about reality. If you’re looking at asbestos removal costs, what you’re really paying for is peace of mind and protection for your family or tenants.
How Much Does Asbestos Removal Cost In Ireland?
Here’s the big question. Unfortunately, the answer is: it depends. But don’t worry, we’re not going to leave you hanging.
The cost of asbestos removal in Ireland depends on several factors, including:
- Type of asbestos – Friable asbestos (crumbly, easily airborne) is much more dangerous and expensive to remove than bonded asbestos (like corrugated roof sheets).
- Quantity – Are we talking about a few square metres of pipe lagging, or an entire roof’s worth of asbestos cement sheets?
- Location – Removing asbestos in a cramped attic is more complex than taking down a garden shed roof.
- Disposal fees – Licensed waste facilities charge for asbestos disposal, and prices vary by weight and volume.
- Labour and safety measures – Proper removal requires trained workers, protective equipment, sealed work areas, and compliance with Irish safety regulations.
Now, let’s break down the typical price ranges so you know what to expect.
Average Costs Of Asbestos Removal In Ireland
To give you a clearer picture, here are some ballpark figures for different types of asbestos removal jobs in Ireland:
- Asbestos Testing & Surveying
- €200 – €500 for a basic asbestos survey.
- €50 – €100 per sample for laboratory testing.
- Tip: Always start here. Guesswork is risky and could be costly later.
- Asbestos Cement Roofing (Sheds, Garages, Outbuildings)
- €800 – €3,000 depending on size.
- Smaller sheds might cost under €1,000; large farm buildings can run much higher.
- Asbestos Ceiling or Wall Panels
- €40 – €70 per square metre.
- Asbestos Pipe Insulation (Lagging)
- €50 – €120 per metre, depending on accessibility.
- Asbestos Floor Tiles or Adhesives
- €25 – €50 per square metre.
- Asbestos Contaminated Soil
- €100 – €250 per tonne for safe removal and disposal.
Remember, these are average ranges. A site inspection is always required for accurate pricing.
Why Costs Vary So Much
One homeowner may pay €900 to strip a garage roof, while another pays €9,000 for an attic full of asbestos insulation boards. What makes the difference?
- Risk Level – Higher-risk asbestos requires more intensive safety measures.
- Access – Easy-to-reach materials cost less to remove. Tight crawl spaces, multi-story buildings, or areas near schools/hospitals drive costs up.
- Waste Volume – Asbestos is heavy, and disposal charges add up fast.
- Regulatory Requirements – Licensed contractors must comply with strict Health and Safety Authority (HSA) rules, which can increase labour time and costs.
Can You Remove Asbestos Yourself?
This is a common question. Technically, Irish law allows homeowners to remove very small amounts of asbestos cement if they follow strict safety guidelines. But here’s the reality:
- Asbestos dust is invisible. You could expose yourself and your family without knowing.
- DIY removal often leads to accidental breakage, which makes the situation far more dangerous.
- You can’t legally dispose of asbestos in your household bin, it must go to a licensed waste facility.
So while you might save a few hundred euros upfront, the risks aren’t worth it. Professional removal isn’t just a service; it’s insurance against lifelong health consequences.
How To Choose A Reputable Asbestos Removal Contractor
Unfortunately, the asbestos industry attracts its fair share of cowboys. Some cut corners with safety. Others charge inflated rates because they know homeowners are scared. To protect yourself:
- Check licensing – Contractors must be licensed by the HSA for asbestos work.
- Ask for references – Genuine contractors will have a track record of safe removals.
- Get multiple quotes – At least 3 quotes to compare. Beware of both the cheapest (often unsafe) and the most expensive (possibly exploitative).
- Check disposal arrangements – Ensure they’re using licensed waste facilities.
- Read the method statement – Professional firms will provide a clear, step-by-step plan.
Hidden Costs To Watch Out For
Many homeowners are shocked when they realise asbestos removal isn’t just about taking material away. Some hidden costs can creep in:
- Scaffolding – Large roofs often require scaffolding, which adds €500 – €2,000.
- Roof Replacement – If asbestos roofing is removed, you’ll need new roofing materials.
- Delays – Weather or regulatory checks can extend the project (and increase costs).
- Insurance – Some insurers may require proof of professional asbestos removal before covering your property.
Smart Ways To Reduce Costs
Nobody wants to overspend. While asbestos removal is never “cheap,” there are ways to manage costs wisely:
- Bundle jobs together – If you have multiple asbestos areas, tackle them in one go to reduce call-out fees.
- Get a full survey upfront – Avoid “surprise costs” by knowing exactly what’s on your property.
- Schedule during off-peak times – Contractors may offer lower rates outside the summer building rush.
- Negotiate disposal fees – Sometimes these can be reduced depending on volume.
The Cost Of Not Removing Asbestos
Here’s a perspective shift: the real “cost” of asbestos isn’t measured in euros, it’s measured in health and peace of mind. Leaving asbestos untouched may feel like saving money today, but:
- Disturbed asbestos during renovations can contaminate your entire home.
- Selling a property with asbestos is difficult and often reduces the sale price.
- If tenants or workers are exposed, you could face legal and financial liability.
So while removal feels like a painful expense, it’s actually a long-term investment in your safety, property value, and future. Asbestos removal in Ireland can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros. The price tag may sting, but it’s not just another line on your renovation budget, it’s protection for your lungs, your loved ones, and your property value.
If you’re weighing up costs, remember:
- Get a professional survey first.
- Always use licensed contractors.
- Compare quotes, but don’t cut corners with safety.
Yes, asbestos removal costs money. But the peace of mind you get in return? That’s priceless.
If you’ve discovered asbestos on your property, don’t sit in uncertainty. Reach out to licensed asbestos removal specialists in your area, ask for a survey, and get clear answers. Whether it’s a small shed roof or a full building strip-out, the sooner you take action, the safer and simpler it will be.
Your home should be a place of comfort, not concern. Investing in safe asbestos removal today ensures you can breathe easy, literally, for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost can range from €800 for a small shed roof to €10,000+ for larger, high-risk jobs like attic insulation or contaminated soil. On average, most homeowners spend between €1,500 and €3,500. The exact figure depends on the type of asbestos, the size of the job, accessibility, and disposal fees.
Not always. If asbestos materials are in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, they may be left in place and monitored. However, if you plan renovations, if the material is deteriorating, or if it poses a risk of fibre release, removal becomes the safer option.
Technically, small amounts of bonded asbestos (like shed roofing sheets) can be removed by homeowners if strict safety measures are followed. But it’s not recommended. You’ll need the right protective gear, safe handling knowledge, and access to a licensed waste facility. For most cases, hiring a licensed contractor is the safest and most cost-effective choice in the long run.
Simple jobs like removing a garage roof may take 1 – 2 days. Larger, more complex projects, like stripping asbestos insulation from a full attic, can take 1 – 2 weeks. The timeline includes preparation, removal, disposal, and final clearance checks.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) oversees asbestos regulations. Contractors must be trained and licensed to carry out work with asbestos. Disposal is also regulated, materials can only be taken to licensed facilities.
All asbestos waste must be double-bagged or sealed in airtight containers, clearly labelled, and transported to a licensed hazardous waste facility. It cannot go into regular skips or household bins. Disposal fees are usually included in your removal quote.
Generally, no. Most Irish home insurance policies do not cover asbestos removal as it’s considered a maintenance issue, not an insurable event. Some policies may cover removal if asbestos is disturbed during an insured event (like storm damage), but this is rare. Always check with your insurer.
Yes. Properties with asbestos can be harder to sell, as buyers may worry about removal costs. Having asbestos professionally removed, and having the paperwork to prove it, can actually improve your home’s marketability and value.
The cheapest option is often management in place, leaving asbestos undisturbed if it’s safe and sealed. If removal is necessary, getting multiple quotes, bundling jobs together, and scheduling outside peak construction times can reduce costs. However, never choose the cheapest contractor if it means compromising safety.
Ask for:
- Proof of HSA-approved training or licence.
- References from previous clients.
- A detailed method statement.
- Waste disposal documentation.
If they can’t provide these, look elsewhere.
Yes. In some cases, asbestos can be sealed with a protective coating that prevents fibre release. This is often cheaper than removal, but it’s not always suitable. Encapsulation works best for stable, undamaged materials. A surveyor can advise if this is a safe option.
