Properties built before the year 2000 could contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These materials were used extensively throughout the 20th century in all sorts of domestic construction and renovation work.
Undisturbed and well-contained asbestos poses little danger, but recognising its hiding places is vital for safe management. Here's a practical guide to where ACMs are most commonly found in UK domestic properties.
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Walls & Ceilings
Textured Coatings (e.g. Artex)
Frequently found in mid-20th-century homes in Derbyshire.
Generally used on ceilings, but occasionally found on walls.
Could include chrysotile (white type of asbestos).
Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB)
Installed for its fire-retardant and insulating properties.
Commonly placed in internal dividers, ceiling boards, soffits, and around heating units.
Flooring
Vinyl Floor Tiles and Sheet Flooring
Often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The glue or backing (often black bitumen) can contain asbestos.
Still found in many older homes, usually hidden under newer flooring.
Pipes and Central Heating
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.
Roofing and Attic Areas
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 Lining 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
Garages erected between the 1950s and 1980s often used asbestos sheeting.
Also commonly used for garage ceilings and 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
Old electrical systems often featured asbestos due to its resistance to heat and fire.
Easily missed during home improvements or electrical refits.
A Final Point on Invisible ACMs
ACMs are often concealed under carpets, behind plasterboard, or in ceiling voids. 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.
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 Clifton residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Clifton Aim To Find?
- Searching For Approved Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Clifton
- Common Places To Find Asbestos In Clifton Households
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too:
