Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in many building materials. All homes built before 2000 could contain asbestos.

Asbestos will only present a risk if it’s classified as a high-risk material, is damaged or has deteriorated. Asbestos in good condition is not a hazard.

What we do

If you live in a home built before 2000, we will:

  • Ensure you are provided with information on where asbestos is located when you move in, so you can be aware of its presence and report to us any deterioration in its condition.
  • Check on this as part of your annual gas inspection or your five-yearly stock condition survey.
  • Any asbestos identified as damaged, in poor condition or high risk will be removed. Any low-risk material is perfectly safe to remain in a property if managed correctly. These materials include floor tiles, textured coating (e.g. artex) and asbestos cement sheets. 

We also have a duty to carry out Management Asbestos Surveys in all communal spaces, if Asbestos is present, we will check that annually to ensure it has not fallen into poor condition. 

What you should do

  • Contact us immediately if materials you believe may contain asbestos have been damaged or disturbed.
  • Avoid cutting, drilling, sanding, or using abrasive tools on any items you believe may contain asbestos. 
  • If you plan on doing any home improvement work, please refer to our guidance. Ensure you contact us for more information if you are unsure. 

 

Frequently asked questions

  • Where is asbestos found in buildings?

    Asbestos is most usually found in these locations: 

    • Insulation of pipes and boilers
    • Firebreak walls in lofts, fire protection in ducts, firebreaks, panels, partitions, soffit boards, ceiling panels and around steel work
    • Insulation boards to partitions and ducts
    • Some ceiling and floor tiles
    • Paper products used for insulation of electrical equipment
    • Asbestos cement based products – such as flat or corrugated sheets used as roofing and wall cladding, gutters, rainwater pipes and water tanks
    • Certain textured coatings, for example Artex.
  • What do I do if the materials containing asbestos in my home are damaged?

    Tell us straight away – we’ll inspect it and let you know what we plan to do.

  • You say I have asbestos in my house but have not removed it – why?

    It’s dependent on the level of risk, asbestos may be left in place if it is not a danger and unlikely to be disturbed or it may be sealed with paint or plastic film.

  • Can I decorate and carry out DIY?

    Yes – but you must take note of the advice relating to any asbestos which may be present in your home. Asbestos should not be disturbed or rubbed down. 

    If your improvements are likely to increase the asbestos risk then you have to comply with the asbestos regulations and use specialist licensed contractors.

    Remember, you need our written permission if you want to improve your home.

If you have any questions or concerns about asbestos in your home which are not dealt with here, you can contact us on 0800 1691122.