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.
Asbestos isn't dangerous if left undisturbed and in good condition-but knowing where it might be hiding is key to managing the risks. Below is a handy reference to typical asbestos locations within residential UK properties.
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Ceilings & 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.
May contain chrysotile (white asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Used for fireproofing and insulation.
Commonly placed in internal dividers, ceiling boards, soffits, and around heating units.
Floors
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, usually hidden under newer flooring.
Pipes and 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
Older heating units sometimes incorporated ACMs for thermal protection.
Roofs and Attic Areas
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
Installed in the edges and linings of roofing structures.
Loose Fill Insulation
Seldom found but highly dangerous.
Appears in some older attics as soft, fluffy insulation.
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
Plastic fittings from past decades may include bonded asbestos.
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 Final Point on Asbestos Containing Materials
A lot of asbestos materials remain out of sight in hidden structural areas. 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. 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 Stanhope Bretby residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Stanhope Bretby Consider?
- Locating Legal Asbestos Disposal Points in Stanhope Bretby
- Common Places To Find ACMs In Stanhope Bretby Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: