Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These materials were used extensively throughout the 20th century in all sorts of domestic construction and renovation work.
As long as asbestos remains intact and sealed, it's relatively safe; however, knowing where it's found is crucial to reduce 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.
Known to sometimes hold white asbestos fibres.
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Installed for its fire-retardant and insulating properties.
Located in ceiling panels, internal partitions, soffits, and behind radiators.
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.
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.
Very crumbly and dangerous if disturbed or degraded.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roof Materials and Loft Space
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Used in garages, sheds, and occasionally the main house roof.
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
Rare but extremely hazardous.
Appears in some older attics as soft, fluffy insulation.
Outbuildings and Garages
Many garages built from the 1950s to 1980s feature asbestos cement panels for walls and roofing.
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
Older toilet parts sometimes incorporated asbestos-reinforced materials.
Electrical Components
Old electrical systems often featured asbestos due to its resistance to heat and fire.
Commonly ignored during electrical updates or rewiring.
A Quick Word on Hidden Asbestos Containing Materials
Many asbestos-containing materials are hidden behind walls, beneath floor coverings, or in loft spaces. 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.
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.
If you're unsure, arrange a Derbyshire professional asbestos survey in Eckington. 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 Eckington residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Eckington Consider?
- Locating Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste in Eckington
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Eckington Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: