Properties built before the year 2000 could contain 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. 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)
Frequently found in mid-20th-century homes in Derbyshire.
Often applied to ceilings and occasionally walls.
May contain chrysotile (white asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Applied to enhance fire resistance and insulation.
Commonly placed in internal dividers, ceiling boards, soffits, and around heating units.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Commonly laid in bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Still found in many older homes in Derbyshire, usually under newer flooring.
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.
Roof Materials and Loft
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
Installed in the edges and linings of roofing structures.
Loose Fill Insulation
Seldom found but highly dangerous.
Usually present in attic spaces of aged houses.
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
AIB used behind sinks, cookers, or bath panels for heat and moisture resistance.
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.
Commonly ignored during electrical updates or rewiring.
A Last Point on Other Asbestos
A lot of asbestos materials remain out of sight in hidden structural areas. That's why a proper asbestos survey should be carried out before any serious renovation-to locate hidden hazards.
Seeing no asbestos doesn't mean it's not present. The safest approach is to assume asbestos may be present in any UK home built before 2000, especially if you're planning maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
If you're unsure, arrange a Derbyshire professional asbestos survey in Stanley Common. 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 Stanley Common residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Stanley Common Asbestos Surveys Consider
- How To Find A Responsible Stanley Common Asbestos Disposal Location
- Where To Look For Asbestos-Containing Materials In Stanley Common Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: