Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). They were commonly used in UK domestic building and renovation throughout the 1900s.
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)
Common in homes from the 1960s-1980s.
Typically seen on ceilings, though sometimes present on walls.
May contain chrysotile (white asbestos).
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
Often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Frequently hidden under more recent flooring upgrades.
Pipes and Central Heating Systems
Pipe Lagging
Common in pre-1970s properties, particularly around boiler rooms and in airing cupboards.
A friable material-high risk if damaged or deteriorating.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roof Materials and Loft
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Used in garages, sheds, and occasionally the main house roof.
Generally safe if intact, but dangerous when broken or cut.
Roof Linings 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
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
Some older plastic/resin components contained asbestos for added strength.
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 Brief Point on Invisible Asbestos Containing Materials
Many asbestos-containing materials are hidden behind walls, beneath floor coverings, or in loft spaces. Conducting a demolition or refurb survey before major alterations ensures no concealed ACMs are disturbed.
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 Doveridge residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Doveridge Look For?
- Locating Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in Doveridge
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Doveridge Households
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: