Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour 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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Ceilings and Walls
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Widely applied in properties built between the 1960s and 1980s.
Generally used on ceilings, but occasionally found on walls.
Known to sometimes hold white asbestos fibres.
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Applied to enhance fire resistance and insulation.
Found in partition walls, ceiling tiles, soffits, and behind heaters.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Typically found in high-use areas such as kitchens 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
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roofs and Loft Space
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
Rare but extremely hazardous.
Appears in some older attics as soft, fluffy insulation.
Outbuildings and Garages
Outbuildings from the mid-century often incorporated asbestos cement in their design.
Also commonly used for garage ceilings and 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
Asbestos was used in fuse boxes, electrical backing boards, and old light fittings due to its fire-resistant properties.
Often overlooked during DIY rewiring or fitting upgrades.
A Word on Asbestos Containing Materials
ACMs are often concealed under carpets, behind plasterboard, or in ceiling voids. 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. 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. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Renishaw residents on the site here:
- A Look At What Renishaw Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Finding Legal Asbestos Disposal Points in Renishaw
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In Renishaw Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: