FAQs | Serve Group
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Lead?

    Lead is a toxic substance that can affect people of any age. The most common risk with Lead is Lead paint which is most dangerous if it has been damaged or disturbed (peeling, chalking or flaking).

    Lead can accumulate in the body by leaching into skin through exposure. Even smalls amounts can pose a health hazard over time.

  • What Lead services do Serve Group offer?

    • Removal of flaking Lead paint
    • Remediation of Lead paint (encapsulation / sealing)
    • Full removal of Lead paint
    • Removal of Lead dust
    • Removal and Remediation of Lead contaminated soil

  • What are the health complications associated with Lead?

    Studies have linked Lead exposure to:

    • Kidney damage
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Reduced fertility and birth defects
    • Cancer and anaemia

    In relation to Lead paint, health risks increase if the paint is flaking. The risk also increases if the Lead paint is removed by sanding or burning it. Paint can rub off through the movement of windows and doors, or just from general wear and tear.

  • Where is Lead found?

    Lead is likely to be found in buildings that were built before 1970. Lead is generally found in the following locations:

    • Window frames
    • Walls
    • Lead dust can accumulate in ceiling spaces
    • Doors
    • Skirting boards / architraves
    • Fascia’s and eaves
    • Veranda rails
    • Kitchen and bathroom cupboards

  • What methodology of Lead works does Serve Group adhere to?

    Depending on the scope of works, that is Lead paint removal or Lead contaminated soil removal, methodology differs. Our procedures for Lead services are focused on Hygienist recommendations ensuring the job is completed to a significant standard.

  • Is Serve Group experienced and licensed to complete Lead removal/remediation works?

    Yes, Serve Group are fully licensed and insured to carry out removal/remediation of Lead contaminated materials.

    Serve Group have recently completed Lead paint and Lead contaminated dust works for the Australian Defence force, further reinforcing our commitment and dedication to high quality works and standards.

  • How much notification is required to be given to SafeWork before works commence?

    7 business days are required.

  • Is a clearance inspection necessary of Lead removal/remediation works?

    It is recommended that air-monitoring is completed during the removal of Lead paint, Lead dust and Lead soil. After works, a visual clearance can be completed by a NATA accredited Occupational Hygienist.

  • Does Serve Group organise hygienist services if needed?

    Serve Group can manage your project and engage an Occupational Hygienist on your behalf if requested.

  • Does Serve Group provide neighbour letters for Lead services?

    Yes, before works commence, Serve Group provides surrounding properties with a letter of notification to ensure neighbours are aware of the upcoming works.

  • Does Serve Group provide a Safe Work method statement before works commence?

    Yes, Serve Group have a dedicated administration team to ensure all required documentation is completed to a high standard.

  • What is Mould?

    Mould is a type of fungus that naturally occurs in organisms that play a major role in the ecology of the earth. It grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. Mould creates a distinctive appearance as well as having a pungent odor.

  • Why do I have Mould?

    Mould growth occurs when there is a water source, or if humidity present in an atmosphere, with minimal or no sunshine. Materials such as gyprock, wood and carpet create an ideal place for Mould to occur.

  • How does Mould spread?

    Mould grows best and retrocedes by making spores in a damp and poorly ventilated environment. These spores are carried in the air and may cause health problems if  inhaled by people, especially those who are sensitive or allergic to them.

  • How does Mould impact my health?

    Complications associated with Mould include nasal congestion, eye-irritation, chest tightness and wheezing. Prolonged exposure to high levels of Mould can reduce lung function therefore causing chronic health problems such as asthma and other breathing related issues.

  • How is Mould removed?

    There are generally 2 methods of Mould removal: physical removal of the affected area (for treatment of porous surfaces) and chemical removal of the Mould to the affected surface (for treatment of non-porous surfaces). Depending on the size of the Mould and location of the Mould, Serve Group will analyse the situation and best advise the most appropriate method of removal and further preventative measures.

  • Where could the moisture source be coming from?

    Common sources of moisture contributing to Mould growth:

    • Insufficient ventilation in wet areas of a building (bathroom, laundry, kitchen etc)
    • Roof and ceiling leaks
    • Plumbing leaks
    • Condensation

    If there is no water leak within the property, Mould can still grow depending on elevated humidity levels within the building.

  • Where does Mould occur?

    Mould has the capacity to grow on both porous and non porous materials, including internal and external walls, bathrooms, timber panels and carpets. Mould left untreated has the capacity to cause damage to structural elements within a building.

  • How can I ensure Mould does not return?

    To ensure Mould re-growth does not return, it is essential that the recommendations provided by Serve Group are adhered to, in order to limit the chances of recontamination.

  • How is Demolition performed?

    There are generally 2 methods of Demolition those being Mechanical Demolition and Deconstruction Demolition. Depending on the type of works, Serve Group will determine the most effective and efficient method.

    • Mechanical Demolition involves the use of heavy machinery such as excavators.
    • Deconstruction Demolition involves disassembling the building piece by piece.

  • What will be recycled from my property?

    Serve Group will ensure that all endeavours are made on site to separate materials as much as possible to ensure eco-friendly practises are adopted. From concrete, bricks, timber and tiles our field team make certain that waste materials are separated to maximise the amount of recycling and reduce landfill.

  • Will my neighbours be disturbed?

    Before Demolition works commence letters are provided to nearby properties to ensure all neighbours are notified. Depending on the property location and proximity to neighbours, some noise created by machinery may be heard during allowed hours of operation according to the state or area.

  • How long does Demolition take?

    The duration of a project strongly depends on the size of the project as well as the material within the building. As a guide, Mechanical Demolition of a single standard sized house, once all permits and pre-works have been obtained, Demolition takes approximately 1-2 days.

  • What applications are needed for the Demolition of a residential home?

    A Development Application Approval as well as CDC (Complying Development Certificate) is required from your local council before Demolition works begin.

  • Do you remove Asbestos before Demolition? Can Serve Group Demolish buildings that contain Asbestos contaminated materials?

    Yes, Serve Group are fully licensed and insured to remove both Friable and Non-Friable Asbestos. Before Demolition works commence Serve Group ensure that any contaminated material such as Asbestos is removed and disposed of before full Demolition works begin.

  • What size Demolition projects does Serve Group service?

    Currently Serve Group have a restricted Demolition licence which means we have the capacity to Demolish and dispose of buildings up to 15 metres in height.

  • What services need to be disconnected before Demolition can begin?

    All electrical, plumbing, gas and air-conditioning services must be disconnected before the commencement of Demolition works.

  • What is Asbestos?

    Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals composed of soft, flexible microscopic fibres that are heat resistant. Asbestos accumulates in the body with every exposure and there is no known way to reverse the damage it causes. Scientific studies show exposure to Asbestos is linked to several diseases including cancers. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer almost exclusively caused by Asbestos exposure. The mineral also causes Asbestos-related lung cancer, ovarian cancer and laryngeal.

    FACT: Around 4,000 Australians die yearly from Asbestos-related diseases, one of the highest rates in the world.

  • What are the types of Asbestos? (6 natural minerals)

    Chrysotile Asbestos

    • Also known as ‘white asbestos’.
    • Contains long, curly fibres that wrap around themselves.
    • Examples of chrysotile asbestos products; adhesives, gaskets, insultation, vinyl tiles and brake pads.

    Amosite Asbestos

    • Also known as ‘brown asbestos’.
    • Generally, creates a higher health risk of cancer in comparison with chrysotile asbestos.
    • Resistant to heat and flame, therefore common in construction materials.
    • Examples of amosite asbestos products; cement sheets, tiles, fireproof products, electrical and pipe insulation.

    Crocidolite Asbestos

    • Fibres are extremely thin and sharp, causing them to lodge more easily in lung tissue.
    • Examples of crocidolite asbestos products; ceiling tiles, insulation, cement sheets and fireproofing.

    Anthophyllite Asbestos

    • Long needle like fibres that is brown or yellow in colour.
    • Commonly contains magnesium and iron.
    • Examples of anthophyllite asbestos products; rubber, cement and insulation.

    Tremolite & Actinolite Asbestos

    • Ranges of milky white to dark green in colour.
    • Sharp and straight fibres.
    • Generally contaminated with vermiculite and talc deposits.

    Website: https://www.mesothelioma.com/asbestos-exposure/what-is-asbestos/

  • Why was asbestos used in buildings?

    Asbestos materials are a highly heat-resistant and an efficient electrical insulator. However, after archaeological studies Asbestos was found to have harmful characteristics.

  • What are the risks are associated with Asbestos?

    Asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma can be caused by breathing in Asbestos fibres. With the number of fibres inhaled, the risk of developing these diseases increases, and if you smoke, the risk of lung cancer from inhaling Asbestos fibres is even greater.

  • What is the difference between Friable and Non-Friable Asbestos?

    Friable (Class A)

    • Can crumble or break by hand
    • Easily release toxic dust into the air
    • Poses a greater health risk than bonded Asbestos

    Non-Friable (Class B)

    • Also known as bonded Asbestos
    • Material that is reinforced with a bonding compound
    • Cannot crumble or break by hand but can be disturbed by cutting or sawing

  • How do I know if my property has Asbestos?

    Serve Group staff have over 10 years’ experience removing Asbestos. Our experienced staff can assist you from the initial site inspection and advise the possibilities of the material being Asbestos contaminated. However, to obtain a correct representation Serve Group can take samples to a registered laboratory for analysis to determine the presence of Asbestos.

  • Can I remove Asbestos myself?

    We recommend using a Licenced and Qualified busines to ensure all safety procedures and regulations are met. Please contact Serve Group for further information.

  • What qualifications does Serve Group hold?

    Serve Group is fully licensed and insured to remove both Class A and Class B Asbestos. Serve Group is fully compliant with all Codes of Practice stated by SafeWork NSW, moreover Serve Groups Managing Director, Wade Rogers, is the Treasurer of ARCA (Asbestos Removal Contractors Association) https://www.ahrcansw.asn.au/

  • Is a clearance inspection necessary for all jobs?

    • In NSW Asbestos removal works greater than 10m2 require a clearance inspection.
    • In the ACT all Asbestos removal works no matter the size of the works requires a clearance inspection.

  • Does Serve Group organise hygienist services if needed?

    Serve Group can manage your project and engage a hygienist on your behalf if required.

  • What areas does Serve Group Service?

    Serve Group currently services both metro and regional NSW, as well as the ACT.

  • What procedures are followed when removing Asbestos?

    Serve Group staff ensure the highest safety precautions are implemented at each job. The areas that require removal works are isolated, barriers installed, and Asbestos signage erected before removal works commence. The items to be removed are sprayed with PVA glue to seal them prior to removal.
    All contaminated material is double wrapped with 200-micron plastic and placed in Serve Group trucks before disposal at a licensed Asbestos Waste Facility and each load is tracked using an EPA Waste tracking consignment.
    All staff are required to wear personal protective equipment during works. All equipment is decontaminated before leaving the contaminated removal area.
    To further your understanding on Asbestos removal procedures please do not hesitate to contact us on 1300 119 233 or email us admin@servegroup.com.au

  • Disturbing Asbestos- What to do?

    Asbestos should not be disturbed at any stage. Do not hesitate to give us a call and our friendly staff will be able to assist in removing the disturbed Asbestos or making the area safe.

  • How much notice is required to be given to SafeWork before works commence?

    5 days notice must be given to SafeWork NSW or Access Canberra before any Asbestos removal works begin, by the person conducting business (Serve Group).

  • Does Serve Group provide neighbour letters for Asbestos works?

    Yes, before works commence, Serve Group provides surrounding properties a letter of notification to ensure your neighbours are aware of the upcoming works.

  • Does Serve Group provide an Asbestos Removal Control Plan (ARCP) as well as a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) before works commence?

    Yes, Serve Group have a dedicated administration team to ensure all required documentation is completed to a high standard.

  • Where is Asbestos found within a home?

    Serve Group Where is Asbestos found within a home?

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