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. Here's a practical guide to where ACMs are most commonly found in UK domestic properties.
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Walls and Ceilings
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Frequently found in mid-20th-century homes in Derbyshire.
Often applied to ceilings and occasionally 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
Commonly laid in bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors.
The backing or adhesive (black bitumen) may contain asbestos.
Still found in many older homes in Derbyshire, usually under newer flooring.
Pipes and Central Heating
Pipe Lagging
Used in many homes built before the 1970s, especially around heating pipes.
A friable material-high risk if damaged or deteriorating.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roofing 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 Lining and Soffits
Installed in the edges and linings of roofing structures.
Loose Fill Insulation
Uncommon but poses severe health risks.
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
AIB used behind sinks, cookers, or bath panels for heat and moisture resistance.
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.
Easily missed during home improvements or electrical refits.
A Brief Point on Asbestos
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.
Seeing no asbestos doesn't mean it's not present. Always treat homes built before 2000 with caution, especially ahead of renovations or repairs.
When in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos surveyor near Holymoorside. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Holymoorside residents on the site here:
- A Look At What Holymoorside Asbestos Surveys Consider
- Searching For Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste in Holymoorside
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Holymoorside Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: