Business Success

From Flood Clean-Up to 21 Group Services: Asmir’s Journey in Brisbane

Written by Bettina Diaz | Aug 15, 2024 6:45:00 AM

If you’ve ever wondered how some tradies build businesses that quietly go from strength to strength, let me tell you about Asmir.

His company, 21 Group Services, is now ready to serve customers in and around Brisbane, QLD, specialising in demolition, mould remediation, and asbestos removal. But the story didn’t start with a grand business plan or flashy launch. It started in Lismore.

It All Began After the Floods

“We started in Lismore, cleaning the disaster-affected town after the flood happened, and from then on, we have grown.”

That’s how Asmir puts it. Simple. Straightforward. No drama. Just hard work when people needed it most.

When Lismore was hit by devastating floods, Asmir stepped in to help clean up. It was hands-on, demanding work. From there, the business naturally expanded. What began as disaster recovery turned into a growing operation built on trust, consistency, and grit.

Built on Experience — and a Big Lesson

Asmir didn’t stumble into the industry. “I have over 10 years in demolition,” he says. That experience became the foundation of 21 Group Services.

But like most business owners, his path wasn’t smooth from day one.

“When I first started, I underquoted a job by thousands, so I had to bear the cost and work ridiculous hours to finish the job.”

It’s the kind of lesson you never forget. Instead of walking away or cutting corners, he paid the cost and pushed through. That moment shaped how he runs his business today — with accuracy, integrity, and a commitment to finishing what he starts.

One piece of advice he wishes he’d known earlier? “Patience is a virtue.”

Word of Mouth and 100% Effort

Asmir doesn’t rely on flashy marketing tactics. “Word of mouth or recommendations” is how he typically finds new clients.

And how does he keep them?

“Making sure the work you put in is 100% for every job and leaving without disappointing the client.”

It’s a simple philosophy — do the job properly, clean up thoroughly, and don’t leave until the customer’s satisfied.

That mindset shows in his reviews:

5.0 Jeremy from Sherwood, QLD (4 February 2024)
"Very good job. Left the area very clean. Highly recommended. 👍"

5.0 Natalie from Bray Park, QLD (11 September 2023)
"Az was communicative and had good pricing. Thanks!"

Jeremy noticed the clean finish. Natalie appreciated the communication and pricing. Those small things add up — and often lead to repeat calls. For Asmir, that’s how he measures success: “Customers call it again.”

Growing in Brisbane — and Being Recognised

Today, 21 Group Services has doubled in size. “Great, we have doubled in size and continue to grow with more clients,” he says about the future.

That growth hasn’t gone unnoticed. His company was named Top 10 Asbestos Removalist in the ServiceSeeking Business Awards for 2023 and 2024 — a huge achievement in a competitive field like asbestos removal.

ServiceSeeking.com.au has also played a part. “We gain some work,” he says, adding that “It's very easy for me to contact clients.” Sometimes it’s the practical tools — even something as simple as accessibility — that make a difference.

And when it comes to technology? “My phone is my number one.” No overcomplicated systems. Just staying reachable and responsive. In fact, one memorable customer experience that stands out? Being “quick to reply.”

Hard Work, Sundays Off, and Looking Ahead

Running a business isn’t all wins and awards. “Clients who don't pay on time,” he admits, can be frustrating. His solution? “Communication is always the best remedy.”

He also protects his balance. “Always take your Sunday off and remind yourself that work isn't everything.” It’s advice many tradies could use.

Through every challenge, he stays motivated by “reminding myself good will come from any situation.” And when failure happens? “When failure happens, it's not the end of the world, just learn from your mistake.”

The key ingredients for growth, in his view, are simple: “Hard work and persistence.”

Looking ahead, his goal is clear: “To continue to grow and become one of the top asbestos removal businesses in Brisbane.”

Given where he started — cleaning up after floods in Lismore — and how far 21 Group Services has already come, you get the sense he’s well on his way.