If your home was built before 2000, there's a chance it may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). They were commonly used in UK domestic building and renovation throughout the 1900s.
As long as asbestos remains intact and sealed, it's relatively safe; however, knowing where it's found is crucial to reduce risks. The following guide outlines the most common spots where asbestos may be present in UK homes.
Arrange a free no obligation quote for asbestos surveys today
Ceilings and 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.
Known to sometimes hold white asbestos fibres.
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.
Adhesives or backing layers sometimes held asbestos fibres.
Frequently hidden under more recent flooring upgrades.
Pipes and Heating
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.
Roof Materials and Loft Areas
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Found in garage or shed roofs, and sometimes main house roofs.
Durable and not highly hazardous unless disturbed.
Roof Linings and Soffits
Installed in the edges and linings of roofing structures.
Loose Fill Insulation
Rare but extremely hazardous.
Typically found in lofts of very old homes-looks like a loose, fluffy material.
Outbuildings and Garages
Outbuildings from the mid-century often incorporated asbestos cement in their design.
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
Older toilet parts sometimes incorporated asbestos-reinforced materials.
Electrical Components
Fireproofing needs meant asbestos was often used behind switches, in fuse boxes, and around old lighting systems.
Easily missed during home improvements or electrical refits.
A Quick Point on Asbestos
A lot of asbestos materials remain out of sight in hidden structural areas. This is why a Refurbishment or Demolition Survey is essential before starting any major work-it uncovers materials you wouldn't see with the naked eye.
The absence of visible asbestos doesn't guarantee its absence. Always treat homes built before 2000 with caution, especially ahead of renovations or repairs.
If you're unsure, arrange a Derbyshire professional asbestos survey in Harpur Hill. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Harpur Hill residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Harpur Hill Consider?
- Identifying Approved Sites for Asbestos Waste in Harpur Hill
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Harpur Hill Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: