Asbestos was commonly used in buildings up until the 1980s. It does not pose a risk to health if it is undamaged or in a position where it cannot be easily disturbed.
Our policy is in line with current safety requirements and is to leave asbestos in position unless:
- It is in an unsatisfactory condition
- Is likely to be subject to frequent disturbances
- It needs to be removed as part of a repair, alteration or improvement.
What we do
West Kent has a long-term commitment to removing asbestos from all its properties. This is not necessary in the short term. There is only a risk to health if asbestos fibres are breathed in and asbestos is usually found in locations where it is extremely unlikely that this will happen.
We are surveying all our properties so that we are aware of the presence, the type and the condition of any asbestos there is. We can then decide what we will do about it. We will tell you if there is any asbestos in your home and what measures you should take to avoid disturbing or damaging it.
What you should do
Do contact us immediately in any of the following circumstances:
- If materials you believe may contain asbestos have been damaged or disturbed.
- If protective coatings or sealants are peeling or breaking off or special warning labels have been removed.
- If the hard durable surface of asbestos cement based products is broken, damaged, badly weathered or eroded.
Don’t
- Work, damage or remove materials containing asbestos. The law requires licensed contractors to be used for all work on asbestos.
- Sand down or scrape off dry Artex.
- Drill, cut or sand materials you may think contain asbestos. These tools create dust.
- Break off pieces or break up large pieces of materials that you believe contain asbestos.
- Jet wash or clean down asbestos cement products. For example shed/garage roofs.
Frequently asked questions
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.