Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre which was commonly used in construction before it was banned across the UK in 1999. Its properties meant that it was an ideal material for building, however the health risks of exposure to it means it is no longer used. 

The main three types of asbestos commonly found are white asbestos (chrysotile), brown asbestos (amosite) and blue asbestos (crocidolite), although the colours are not representative of the colour of the material they are contained within.

Having commonly been used in a variety of building materials, asbestos may be found in a range of places in your home, including walls, ceilings and flooring. Asbestos is contained in asbestos containing materials (ACM’s) and does not provide a high level of risk unless the material containing the asbestos is damaged. If damage does occur, for example through drilling, then the asbestos fibres may become airborne which leads to exposure, which can cause health risks. 
 

We are committed to keeping you safe from asbestos issues, both proactively and reactively. We have an Asbestos Management Plan (AMP), which outlines how we deal with any asbestos containing materials (ACM’s) in our properties. 

We undertake asbestos surveys to locate any ACM’s, which we then monitor with regular inspections to ensure the condition of these materials remains safe. If any immediate work is required, then this will be arranged with one of our specialist contractors when the survey or inspection is completed. 

We have in-house asbestos surveyors and inspectors who visit all our properties built before 2000 that may contain ACM’s. In line with the AMP, we monitor the asbestos in these properties, and only remove it if it is damaged or before any major works are undertaken to properties, for example new bathrooms or kitchens being installed. 

Asbestos is safe as long as it is not disturbed, so it is important that you are careful not to damage any ACM’s when undertaking work on your home. Drilling, cutting, sanding or removing materials containing asbestos can lead to it being disturbed, which is when it becomes dangerous. 

If you have any questions about the asbestos in your home or if you suspect an ACM has been damaged, please contact us. If you suspect a material contains asbestos, it is best to contact us to investigate and ensure that you are safe.