Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour 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. Below is a handy reference to typical asbestos locations within residential UK properties.
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Walls and Ceilings
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Common in homes from the 1960s-1980s.
Typically seen on ceilings, though sometimes present on walls.
Could include chrysotile (white type of asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Used for fireproofing and insulation.
Found in partition walls, ceiling tiles, soffits, and behind heaters.
Flooring
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.
Still found in many older homes in Derbyshire, usually hidden under newer flooring.
Pipes and Central Heating
Pipe Lagging
Frequently found in older homes, especially in boiler areas and hot water cupboards.
Very crumbly and dangerous if disturbed or degraded.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Some older boilers may have internal or surrounding ACMs for heat resistance.
Roofing and Attic Space
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Used in garages, sheds, and occasionally the main house roof.
Generally safe if intact, but dangerous when broken or cut.
Roof Lining and Soffits
Asbestos cement or AIB used to line roof eaves, gable ends, or soffits.
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
Many garages built from the 1950s to 1980s feature asbestos cement panels for walls and roofing.
Also commonly used for garage ceilings and water 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
Old electrical systems often featured asbestos due to its resistance to heat and fire.
Easily missed during home improvements or electrical refits.
A Final Word on Asbestos
Many asbestos-containing materials are hidden behind walls, beneath floor coverings, or in loft spaces. That's why a proper asbestos survey should be carried out before any serious renovation-to locate hidden hazards.
Seeing no asbestos doesn't mean it's not present. If your house predates 2000, it's safest to act as though asbestos might be present when making changes.
If you're unsure, arrange a Derbyshire professional asbestos survey in Stanley. A minor cost that offers significant reassurance and risk reduction.
We've got more information for Stanley residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Stanley Aim To Find?
- Locating Legal Asbestos Disposal Businesses in Stanley
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Stanley Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: