Homes constructed before 2000 may still harbour 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.
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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)
Used for fireproofing and insulation.
Commonly placed in internal dividers, ceiling boards, soffits, and around heating units.
Flooring
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 hidden under newer flooring.
Pipes and Central Heating Systems
Pipe Lagging
Frequently found in older homes, especially in boiler areas and hot water cupboards.
Extremely fragile, posing high risk when compromised.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Many ageing boilers included asbestos insulation to withstand heat.
Roof Materials and Loft
Asbestos Cement Sheets
Found in garage or shed roofs, and sometimes main house roofs.
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
Rare but extremely hazardous.
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
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.
Often overlooked during DIY rewiring or fitting upgrades.
A Quick Word on ACMs
Many asbestos-containing materials are hidden behind walls, beneath floor coverings, or in loft spaces. 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. If your house predates 2000, it's safest to act as though asbestos might be present when making changes.
When in doubt, consult a licensed asbestos surveyor near Great Cubley. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Great Cubley residents on the site here:
- What Great Cubley Contractors Check For During Their Asbestos Report
- Locating Certified Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Great Cubley
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Great Cubley Residential Settings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: