6 February 2020

The NSW Government is coordinating the clean-up of NSW residences and eligible businesses impacted by the NSW bushfires. This includes both insured and uninsured properties.

Register at NSW Bushfire Cleanup - Register Now.

This program focuses on safety hazards and issues that could impede people rebuilding their homes. For example:

• the clean-up costs of outbuildings that are uninhabitable or unusable that are located within the vicinity of a primary residence or business operation are covered
• the clean-up costs of septic tanks are not covered unless they present a safety issue.

The clean-up of bushfire-impacted properties may include:

• containment and removal of asbestos and other contaminated materials released as a result of bushfire
• removal of all dangerous debris including destroyed material and hazard trees
• removal of concrete slab foundations.

Public Works Advisory (PWA) has appointed Laing O’Rourke Australia to lead the clean-up. They'll be engaging local contractors and local suppliers where possible, to ensure that properties are efficiently and safely cleared.

With safety being the number one priority, testing will be initially carried out on all properties to ensure communities are not exposed to contamination, and workers are not exposed to any hazardous materials.

Register as soon as possible as PWA and Laing 0'Rourke staff will begin contacting registered property owners from early February to begin planning. They will pre-arrange any household visits and will not turn up unannounced or demand payment.

If you have any concerns, please visit Check a builder or tradesperson licence.

Most residential properties will be substantially cleared by 30 June 2020, but it may take longer for isolated properties in remote areas and regions where there is still active fire.

Note: The NSW Government will cover the full clean-up cost for insured and uninsured eligible property owners. This includes properties that are used as residences, or for small business or primary production.

The cost of clearing properties will not be deducted from the funds available under insurance policies.

Owners of business/commercial premises

Commercial property owners should contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 to discuss their individual situations. Corporate and large business owners may opt in to the program, but those clean-up costs will be borne by insurers or owners.