Properties built before the year 2000 could 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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Walls & Ceilings
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Frequently found in mid-20th-century homes in Derbyshire.
Generally used on ceilings, but occasionally found 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.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Commonly laid in bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Frequently hidden under more recent flooring upgrades.
Pipes and Heating Systems
Pipe Lagging
Used in many homes built before the 1970s, especially around heating pipes.
Extremely fragile, posing high risk when compromised.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Some older boilers may have internal or surrounding ACMs for heat resistance.
Roofs and Loft Space
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Used in garages, sheds, and occasionally the main house roof.
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.
Usually present in attic spaces of aged houses.
Outbuildings and Garages
Garages erected between the 1950s and 1980s often used asbestos sheeting.
Also commonly used for garage ceilings and water 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
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 Final Word on Asbestos Containing Materials
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.
Just because asbestos isn't visible doesn't mean it's not there. 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.
When in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos surveyor near Coal Aston. A minor cost that offers significant reassurance and risk reduction.
We've got more information for Coal Aston residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Coal Aston Inspect?
- Locating Reputable Asbestos Disposal Businesses in Coal Aston
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Coal Aston Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: