Asbestos in Homes: What You Need to Know Before You Renovate
If you’re planning a Renovation or Home Refurbishment, asbestos might not be the first thing on your mind. But it should be. Asbestos is still present in many Residential Homes across the UK. Knowing your duty and understanding the risks is vital before you get started.
What is Asbestos and Why Was it Used?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibres once praised for being strong, fireproof, and cheap. It was widely used in homes between the 1930s and 1999. You’ll find it in ceiling coatings, floor tiles, pipe lagging, and garage roofs. If undisturbed, asbestos is often safe. But during Renovation, disturbing it can release harmful fibres into the air.
Common Places Asbestos is Found in Homes
Most people don’t realise how many parts of their home could contain asbestos. These are the most common spots:
- Artex ceilings and wall coatings
- Insulation board behind fuse boxes and heaters
- Floor tiles and their adhesive
- Cement panels in garage roofs or sheds
- Pipe lagging in older heating systems
These materials were legal to use until 1999. So, any property built or refurbished before that date could contain them.
The Risk During Home Refurbishment
You might be thinking: “I’m just drilling a hole for a light fitting.” Even small tasks can disturb asbestos. During any Renovation or Home Refurbishment, materials are cut, drilled, or removed. This can release dangerous asbestos fibres into your living space.
Exposure can cause serious health issues, including asbestosis and mesothelioma. That’s why identifying asbestos before you begin is a must.
When You Need an Asbestos Survey
Before doing any intrusive work, get an Asbestos Survey. This is especially important in Residential Homes built before 2000. A survey helps you locate any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and advises how to manage them.
If you’re a landlord or employer, this is more than just good advice. You have legal employer duties under workplace safety regulations. Even in a domestic setting, if someone is working in your home, you may have a duty to ensure their safety.
Why It’s Not Just About You
Hiring a contractor to help with your Renovation? It’s important to understand who holds responsibility under health and safety law. While you might be the homeowner, legal duties don’t just disappear. Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, your employer duties as a domestic client are usually passed to the contractor or principal contractor. This means they’re legally responsible for managing risks — including asbestos.
However, you still have a duty to make sure the work is carried out safely. Always ask if an asbestos survey has been completed before starting any home refurbishment. It’s a simple tip that could protect lives.
What To Do If You Suspect Asbestos
Don’t panic. The key is not to disturb it. Contact a competent health and safety professional. A proper Asbestos Survey will tell you what you’re dealing with. In many cases, asbestos can be safely managed in place.
Final Tip: Don’t Cut Corners
Skipping an Asbestos Survey to save time or money is never worth it. It could cost you much more in the long run. Protect your family, workers, and future home buyers.
If you’re planning a Home Refurbishment or Renovation, take the safe route. Book an Asbestos Survey and get peace of mind before you start.
Need help? Our friendly and supportive team is here to guide you. Get in touch for expert advice today.