If your home was built before 2000, there's a chance it may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Such materials featured heavily in UK housing developments and refurbishments during the 20th century.
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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Ceilings & Walls
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)
Applied to enhance fire resistance and insulation.
Commonly placed in internal dividers, ceiling boards, soffits, and around heating units.
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, usually under newer flooring.
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
Older heating units sometimes incorporated ACMs for thermal protection.
Roofing and Attic
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 Linings and Soffits
Materials like AIB or asbestos cement were placed in soffits and eaves.
Loose Fill Insulation
Seldom found but highly dangerous.
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.
Frequently found in garage ceilings and cold water tanks.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
Wall Panels and Splashbacks
Placed around wet areas for insulation and fireproofing.
Toilet Cisterns and Seats
Older toilet parts sometimes incorporated asbestos-reinforced materials.
Electrical Components
Asbestos was used in fuse boxes, electrical backing boards, and old light fittings due to its fire-resistant properties.
Often overlooked during DIY rewiring or fitting upgrades.
A Last Point on Other Asbestos Containing Materials
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.
The absence of visible asbestos doesn't guarantee its absence. Always treat homes built before 2000 with caution, especially ahead of renovations or repairs.
When in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos surveyor near Pleasley. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Pleasley residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Pleasley Examine?
- Searching For Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Pleasley
- Common Places To Find Asbestos In Pleasley Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: