Many older homes contain asbestos, which is safe if left undisturbed. If damaged, it can be a risk.

Asbestos is a natural material that was widely used in UK buildings until it was banned in 1999. Since 2000, it hasn’t been used in the construction homes.

When asbestos gets old, damaged, or disturbed, tiny fibres can be released into the air. Breathing in these fibres can lead to serious health issues over time, but the effects often take years to appear.

Any suspected asbestos-containing materials that are in good condition, should be left in place and not disturbed. Removal or interference could cause asbestos fibres to be released. You should avoid cutting, drilling into, sanding, nailing or scraping any suspect asbestos.

Useful Information

• Asbestos that’s in good condition and is located somewhere where it can’t be easily damaged, shouldn’t be a risk to you.
• Samples are required to be taken of suspect materials to identify whether the materials are asbestos or not.
• Asbestos is only a danger when fibres are made airborne and breathed in – you cannot see or smell asbestos fibres in the air.
• People who smoke and are exposed to asbestos fibres are at a much greater risk of developing lung cancer.