Properties built before the year 2000 could contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Such materials featured heavily in UK housing developments and refurbishments during the 20th century.
Undisturbed and well-contained asbestos poses little danger, but recognising its hiding places is vital for safe management. The following guide outlines the most common spots where asbestos may be present in UK homes.
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Walls and Ceilings
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Widely applied in properties built between the 1960s and 1980s.
Typically seen on ceilings, though sometimes present on walls.
Could include chrysotile (white type of asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Used for fireproofing and insulation.
Commonly placed in internal dividers, ceiling boards, soffits, and around heating units.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The glue or backing (often black bitumen) can contain asbestos.
Still found in many older homes in Derbyshire, usually under newer flooring.
Pipes and Central Heating
Pipe Lagging
Used in many homes built before the 1970s, especially around heating pipes.
Very crumbly and dangerous if disturbed or degraded.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Older heating units sometimes incorporated ACMs for thermal protection.
Roofs and Attic
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Typically applied to outbuilding roofs and, in some cases, residential ones.
Strong and relatively low-risk unless damaged or drilled into.
Roof Lining and Soffits
Asbestos cement or AIB used to line roof eaves, gable ends, or soffits.
Loose Fill Insulation
Uncommon but poses severe health risks.
Appears in some older attics as soft, fluffy insulation.
Outbuildings and Garages
Garages erected between the 1950s and 1980s often used asbestos sheeting.
Also commonly used for garage ceilings and water tanks.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
Wall Panels and Splashbacks
Installed behind appliances and fixtures for fire and moisture protection.
Toilet Cisterns and Seats
Some older plastic/resin components contained asbestos for added strength.
Electrical Components
Old electrical systems often featured asbestos due to its resistance to heat and fire.
Often overlooked during DIY rewiring or fitting upgrades.
A Brief Point on Other Asbestos
ACMs are often concealed under carpets, behind plasterboard, or in ceiling voids. Conducting a demolition or refurb survey before major alterations ensures no concealed ACMs are disturbed.
The absence of visible asbestos doesn't guarantee its absence. If your house predates 2000, it's safest to act as though asbestos might be present when making changes.
When in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos surveyor near Chisworth. It's a small investment for peace of mind-and a big step in protecting your health and safety.
We've got more information for Chisworth residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Chisworth Look For?
- Locating Approved Sites for Asbestos Waste in Chisworth
- Common Places To Find ACMs In Chisworth Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: