If your home was built before 2000, there's a chance it may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These materials were used extensively throughout the 20th century in all sorts of domestic construction and renovation work.
Asbestos isn't dangerous if left undisturbed and in good condition-but knowing where it might be hiding is key to managing the risks. Here's a practical guide to where ACMs are most commonly found in UK domestic properties.
Arrange a free no obligation quote for asbestos surveys today
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.
Could include chrysotile (white type of asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Installed for its fire-retardant and insulating properties.
Found in partition walls, ceiling tiles, soffits, and behind heaters.
Floors
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Commonly laid in bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors.
Adhesives or backing layers sometimes held asbestos fibres.
Often remains beneath modern flooring in older properties.
Pipes and Central Heating
Pipe Lagging
Frequently found in older homes, especially in boiler areas and hot water cupboards.
Extremely fragile, posing high risk when compromised.
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.
Generally safe if intact, but dangerous when broken or cut.
Roof Linings and Soffits
Asbestos cement or AIB used to line roof eaves, gable ends, or soffits.
Loose Fill Insulation
Seldom found but highly dangerous.
Appears in some older attics as soft, fluffy insulation.
Outbuildings and Garages
Many garages built from the 1950s to 1980s feature asbestos cement panels for walls and roofing.
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
Plastic fittings from past decades may include bonded asbestos.
Electrical Components
Asbestos was used in fuse boxes, electrical backing boards, and old light fittings due to its fire-resistant properties.
Commonly ignored during electrical updates or rewiring.
A Final Word on Invisible ACMs
Many asbestos-containing materials are hidden behind walls, beneath floor coverings, or in loft spaces. This is why a Refurbishment or Demolition Survey is essential before starting any major work-it uncovers materials you wouldn't see with the naked eye.
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.
For clarity and safety, book a professional ACM inspection. 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 Hady residents on the site here:
- What Hady Experts Check For With An Building Inspection
- Locating Legal Asbestos Disposal Points in Hady
- Where To Look For Asbestos In Hady Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: