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. Here's a practical guide to where ACMs are most commonly found in UK domestic properties.
Arrange a free no obligation quote for asbestos surveys today
Ceilings and Walls
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Common in homes from the 1960s-1980s.
Often applied to ceilings and occasionally walls.
Known to sometimes hold white asbestos fibres.
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Used for fireproofing and insulation.
Located in ceiling panels, internal partitions, soffits, and behind radiators.
Floors
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Commonly laid in bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors.
The glue or backing (often black bitumen) can contain asbestos.
Frequently hidden under more recent flooring upgrades.
Pipes and Heating Systems
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
Older heating units sometimes incorporated ACMs for thermal protection.
Roof Materials and Attic
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Used in garages, sheds, and occasionally the main house roof.
Durable and not highly hazardous unless disturbed.
Roof Linings and Soffits
Materials like AIB or asbestos cement were placed in soffits and eaves.
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
Garages erected between the 1950s and 1980s often used asbestos sheeting.
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
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.
Commonly ignored during electrical updates or rewiring.
A Last Point on Hidden 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.
Just because asbestos isn't visible doesn't mean it's not there. Always treat homes built before 2000 with caution, especially ahead of renovations or repairs.
For clarity and safety, book a professional ACM inspection. It's a small investment for peace of mind-and a big step in protecting your health and safety.
We've got more information for Washgreen residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Washgreen Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Locating Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste in Washgreen
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In Washgreen Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: