Could There Be Asbestos in Your Home? Here’s What to Know
If your home was built before the year 2000, there’s a chance it contains asbestos — a material that was widely used in UK construction for decades. Known for its heat resistance and insulating properties, asbestos was once considered a miracle building material. But we now know that asbestos exposure can lead to serious and even fatal health conditions. So, how do you know if your home is at risk — and what should you do if it is?
Where Asbestos is Found in UK Homes
In the UK, asbestos was banned in 1999, but it still lurks in many homes, particularly those built or refurbished between the 1950s and 1980s. It can be found in a range of materials, including:
Artex ceilings
Floor tiles
Pipe insulation
Cement garage roofs
Water tanks
Soffits and fascia boards
Boiler cupboard linings
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there could be over 1.5 million buildings in the UK that still contain asbestos.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos becomes dangerous when disturbed. This could happen during renovations, DIY projects, or even simple repairs. Once asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are damaged, tiny fibres are released into the air. When inhaled, these fibres can become lodged in the lungs and cause diseases like:
Mesothelioma
Asbestosis
Pleural thickening
Lung cancer
The UK has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma in the world, largely due to historical asbestos use.
Signs You May Have Asbestos
You won’t be able to identify asbestos by eye, and it doesn’t have a smell. If your home contains any older construction materials, particularly from before 2000, it’s worth getting an asbestos survey. Even if materials look in good condition, don’t take the risk — always assume asbestos is present until confirmed otherwise.
Why Professional Help Matters
Asbestos removal in the UK is strictly regulated. Only licensed asbestos removal companies like us can legally and safely deal with high-risk materials. Our team is trained, accredited, and follows strict safety procedures to protect you and your family.
We provide:
Domestic asbestos surveys
Licensed asbestos removal services
Asbestos waste disposal
Re-inspection and clearance certification
Recent News: Hidden Dangers in Schools and Homes
A 2024 BBC investigation revealed that many UK schools still contain asbestos, and many haven’t been properly surveyed or managed. This has renewed public concern and underscored the widespread nature of the issue. Homeowners often live with asbestos for years without knowing.
What You Can Do
If you're planning to renovate or even just curious about your property's safety, we recommend starting with an asbestos survey. Our experts can assess risk, explain your options clearly, and take action if needed.
Worried about asbestos in your home? Contact Safe Asbestos Removal today for honest advice, clear answers, and a safer home.