Proactive vs reactive approach to asbestos management
Although Worksafe clarification indicates that renovation / building work can be the trigger for an asbestos assessment and management plan , we believe this reactive approach still leaves a landlord or property manager at risk of noncompliance .
A proactive approach involves conducting an asbestos assessment of your rental property and obtaining an asbestos management plan before there is an urgent need to do so , e . g . renovation or emergency repairs .
The reactive approach involves waiting until there is a distinct or urgent need to action your asbestos assessment and management plan , however , this can create other issues and costs for landlords .
There are pros and cons involved with each approach and we have outlined some of these below .
Pros / Cons of proactive approach :
• All regulations honoured and any future prosecution and fines are unlikely
• Less likely to incur costs associated with emergency repairs at a property where an assessment has not yet been done ( e . g . emergency accommodation )
• An initial cost outlay for the landlord compared to a no-cost reactive approach - although this will inevitably come at some stage when repairs / building work is required anyway
• Survey results may recommend removal of all asbestos-containing materials immediately - are you prepared for this and any associated costs ?
Pros / Cons of reactive approach :
• Cannot guarantee all regulations and PCBU requirements are honoured and your immunity from future prosecution and fines
• May incur costs associated with emergency repairs e . g . cannot send a contractor to complete emergency repairs until an asbestos assessment is first completed . May need to provide alternative accommodation for the tenant in the meantime
• No initial cost for landlord / property manager , however , may incur higher asbestos assessment costs in an urgent situation as outlined above .
Ultimately , it is a landlord ' s decision as to which approach they want to take . This decision will come down to a number of factors , however , we encourage landlords to speak with a Ray White property manager for more information .
Asbestos - how can we help ?
Our property managers are provided with comprehensive asbestos best practice guidelines and resources to ensure our obligations as PCBUs are met . Our staff are in regular contact with asbestos assessors and those in the industry who can help provide the most up to date advice and competitive prices for when assessment or remedial work is required .
We recommend you speak with a local Ray White property manager if you would like more information or to see a copy of our comprehensive best practice guidelines .
To find our more general information around the issue and your requirements , visit worksafe . govt . nz
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