Advice Hub: Asbestos

Has my house got asbestos in it? We are often asked this question by concerned house buyers or those who have requested a survey prior to beginning renovation work on a property. Well, the chances are it has. The use of asbestos in new builds was not made illegal until 1999. Previously, blue and brown asbestos was banned in 1985. Though asbestos is known to cause cancer, people should not live in fear in their homes. As long as it is left alone and is not deteriorating, it poses no danger - but if you are planning renovation work there are things you must consider. Take a look at our articles which advise where you might find asbestos in your property and what you should do about it.

Asbestos in houses

3rd June 2020

Asbestos is identified in quite a few of the properties in which we undertake surveys. We particularly find it in those houses that were built between 1930 and 1980 and older flat conversions. Asbestos can appear in the most unlikely of places. Care needs to be taken if you have it, or suspect you have it, in your home.

Where is asbestos found in houses?

Generally speaking, we most often find asbestos in houses in the following locations:

Roof soffits

Textured ceilings – the asbestos risk

9th January 2019

Although much less used now than once textured coatings such as those manufactured by Artex remain on many ceilings throughout the UK. We have also seen when carrying out our property surveys similar products applied to walls and then emulsion painted. In fact it is estimated that around 8 million homes have an Artex finish somewhere.

Until the early 1980s Artex type products contained very low volumes of asbestos, we usually advice clients that it may be present but needs … Read more...