If your home was built before 2000, there's a chance it may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). They were commonly used in UK domestic building and renovation throughout the 1900s.
Asbestos isn't dangerous if left undisturbed and in good condition-but knowing where it might be hiding is key to managing the risks. The following guide outlines the most common spots where asbestos may be present in UK homes.
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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.
Known to sometimes hold white asbestos fibres.
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
Often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Still found in many older homes, usually hidden under newer flooring.
Pipes and Central Heating
Pipe Lagging
Common in pre-1970s properties, particularly around boiler rooms and in airing cupboards.
A friable material-high risk if damaged or deteriorating.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Some older boilers may have internal or surrounding ACMs for heat resistance.
Roof Materials 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 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.
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.
Included in overhead panels and older plumbing 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
Asbestos was used in fuse boxes, electrical backing boards, and old light fittings due to its fire-resistant properties.
Easily missed during home improvements or electrical refits.
A Quick Word on Hidden 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.
For clarity and safety, book a professional ACM inspection. A minor cost that offers significant reassurance and risk reduction.
We've got more information for Middleton residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Middleton Asbestos Surveys Consider
- Where to Locate Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in Middleton
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Middleton Residential Settings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: