Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour 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. Below is a handy reference to typical asbestos locations within residential UK properties.
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Walls and Ceilings
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Widely applied in properties built between the 1960s and 1980s.
Often applied to ceilings and occasionally 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.
Floors
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Typically found in high-use areas such as kitchens and hallways.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Often remains beneath modern flooring in older properties.
Pipes and Heating Systems
Pipe Lagging
Frequently found in older homes, especially in boiler areas and hot water cupboards.
Very crumbly and dangerous if disturbed or degraded.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roof Materials and Loft Space
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 Linings and Soffits
Installed in the edges and linings of roofing structures.
Loose Fill Insulation
Rare but extremely hazardous.
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
Plastic fittings from past decades may include bonded asbestos.
Electrical Components
Old electrical systems often featured asbestos due to its resistance to heat and fire.
Easily missed during home improvements or electrical refits.
A Final Word 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.
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.
If you're unsure, arrange a Derbyshire professional asbestos survey in Lee Head. A minor cost that offers significant reassurance and risk reduction.
We've got more information for Lee Head residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Lee Head Asbestos Surveys Examine
- How To Find An Accredited Lee Head Asbestos Disposal Site
- Common Places To Find ACMs In Lee Head Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: