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.
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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Ceilings and Walls
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Common in homes from the 1960s-1980s.
Generally used on ceilings, but occasionally found on walls.
May contain chrysotile (white asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Used for fireproofing and insulation.
Located in ceiling panels, internal partitions, soffits, and behind radiators.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Commonly laid in bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors.
Adhesives or backing layers sometimes held asbestos fibres.
Often remains beneath modern flooring in older properties in Farnah Green.
Pipes and Central Heating Systems
Pipe Lagging
Common in pre-1970s properties, particularly around boiler rooms and in airing cupboards.
Extremely fragile, posing high risk when compromised.
Boiler Insulation and Gaskets
Some older boilers may have internal or surrounding ACMs for heat resistance.
Roof Materials and Attic
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
Installed in the edges and linings of roofing structures.
Loose Fill Insulation
Rare but extremely hazardous.
Usually present in attic spaces of aged houses.
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
Asbestos was used in fuse boxes, electrical backing boards, and old light fittings due to its fire-resistant properties.
Commonly ignored during electrical updates or rewiring.
A Last Word on Hidden Asbestos
ACMs are often concealed under carpets, behind plasterboard, or in ceiling voids. 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.
Seeing no asbestos doesn't mean it's not present. 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 Farnah Green. It helps ensure everyone stays safe and informed before work begins.
We've got more information for Farnah Green residents on the site here:
- What Farnah Green Inspectors Check For During An Site Inspection
- Locating Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in Farnah Green
- Where To Look For ACMs In Farnah Green Residential Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too:
