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.
As long as asbestos remains intact and sealed, it's relatively safe; however, knowing where it's found is crucial to reduce 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 & Walls
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Widely applied in properties built between the 1960s and 1980s.
Often applied to ceilings and occasionally walls.
May contain chrysotile (white asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Installed for its fire-retardant and insulating properties.
Located in ceiling panels, internal partitions, soffits, and behind radiators.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Frequently hidden under more recent flooring upgrades.
Pipes and Central Heating Systems
Pipe Lagging
Frequently found in older homes, especially in boiler areas and hot water cupboards.
A friable material-high risk if damaged or deteriorating.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roofing and Attic
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Used in garages, sheds, and occasionally the main house roof.
Strong and relatively low-risk unless damaged or drilled into.
Roof Linings and Soffits
Asbestos cement or AIB used to line roof eaves, gable ends, or soffits.
Loose Fill Insulation
Uncommon but poses severe health risks.
Usually present in attic spaces of aged houses.
Outbuildings and Garages
Many garages built from the 1950s to 1980s feature asbestos cement panels for walls and roofing.
Included in overhead panels and older plumbing 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 Brief Word on Asbestos
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.
If you're unsure, arrange a Derbyshire professional asbestos survey in Hope. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Hope residents on the site here:
- A Look At What Hope Asbestos Surveys Inspect
- How To Find An Accredited Hope Asbestos Disposal Location
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Hope Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: