Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These materials were used extensively throughout the 20th century in all sorts of domestic construction and renovation work.
Undisturbed and well-contained asbestos poses little danger, but recognising its hiding places is vital for safe management. Below is a handy reference to typical asbestos locations within residential UK properties.
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Ceilings and Walls
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Widely applied in properties built between the 1960s and 1980s.
Typically seen on ceilings, though sometimes present on walls.
May contain chrysotile (white asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Installed for its fire-retardant and insulating properties.
Found in partition walls, ceiling tiles, soffits, and behind heaters.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Often remains beneath modern flooring in older properties.
Pipes and Heating
Pipe Lagging
Frequently found in older homes, especially in boiler areas and hot water cupboards.
Very crumbly and dangerous if disturbed or degraded.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roofing and Attic Areas
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Found in garage or shed roofs, and sometimes main house roofs.
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
Rare but extremely hazardous.
Typically found in lofts of very old homes-looks like a loose, fluffy material.
Outbuildings and Garages
Garages erected between the 1950s and 1980s often used asbestos sheeting.
Frequently found in garage ceilings and cold water tanks.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
Wall Panels and Splashbacks
Placed around wet areas for insulation and fireproofing.
Toilet Cisterns and Seats
Some older plastic/resin components contained asbestos for added strength.
Electrical Components
Fireproofing needs meant asbestos was often used behind switches, in fuse boxes, and around old lighting systems.
Often overlooked during DIY rewiring or fitting upgrades.
A Final Point on Invisible ACMs
ACMs are often concealed under carpets, behind plasterboard, or in ceiling voids. That's why a proper asbestos survey should be carried out before any serious renovation-to locate hidden hazards.
Just because asbestos isn't visible doesn't mean it's not there. Always treat homes built before 2000 with caution, especially ahead of renovations or repairs.
When in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos surveyor near Dale. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Dale residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Dale Consider?
- How To Find An Dale Asbestos Disposal Company
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Dale Residential Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: