Asbestos was commonly used as a building material in the UK until it was banned in 1999. Due to its heat and chemical resistant properties, it was widely used in things like insulation, roofing, flooring, and cladding. Asbestos is dangerous when its fibres are inhaled, so if it is present in your home, you'll want to identify and safely manage it. Here is how to determine if asbestos is present in your property.
Inspect Visible Areas
Start by visually inspecting accessible areas of your property for materials that may contain asbestos. Look for things like:
- Insulation on pipes, boilers, tanks
- Roof sheets and roofing felts
- Textured coatings like Artex on walls and ceilings
- Vinyl or thermoplastic floor tiles
- Bath panels
- Soffit boards and roof overhangs
- Garage and shed roofing
Asbestos materials can often be identified by their off-white, cream, or grey colour. They also look quite dense and brittle. If you find any suspicious materials, do not disturb them.
Check Documentation
Review any documentation you have about the property, like the deeds, construction records, or invoices from renovations. This may indicate if and where asbestos materials were used.
Speak to Professionals
Talk to any builders, electricians, or other tradespeople who have worked on your property. Ask them if they encountered any asbestos and make a note of where it was located.
Hire an Asbestos Surveyor
If you are still unsure whether or not asbestos is present, the best way to find out definitively is to hire a qualified asbestos surveyor. They can undertake a fully comprehensive survey to locate and identify any asbestos materials. They will be able to tell you exactly where the asbestos is found and provide guidance on whether it needs to be removed or can be left alone.
Hire an Asbestos Removal Company
If your inspection reveals asbestos materials, do not attempt to remove them yourself. Asbestos fibres can become airborne very easily, making DIY removal extremely hazardous. Instead, hire a qualified asbestos removal company to handle the abatement safely.
When choosing an asbestos removal contractor, look for a company that is licensed and insured to perform asbestos removal. They should have extensive experience and training in proper asbestos remediation procedures. Be sure to get quotes from several asbestos removal companies in your area and check reviews to find a reputable provider.
The removal company will use safety equipment and techniques to contain the asbestos and prevent fibres from spreading. This may involve building enclosures, using wet removal methods, wearing protective clothing, and using specialised HEPA vacuums. All asbestos waste will be properly packaged and disposed of at a licensed facility.
Detecting asbestos early allows you to put plans in place to manage it safely. Hiring an accredited asbestos surveyor to undertake a comprehensive inspection gives you peace of mind about the condition of your property. With their expertise, you can ensure that you and your family remain healthy and avoid the risks posed by exposure to asbestos materials.