Asbestos is incredibly harmful and can be present in your home without your knowledge. It is estimated that 70% of homes in the UK still contain asbestos in some way or form. Left alone, asbestos is not a problem, but if disturbed, it can release dangerous fibres which can be fatal to your health.
Asbestos can be disturbed unknowingly by such activities as sanding, drilling, or sawing. When disturbed, asbestos releases harmful fibres which, when airborne, can be inhaled and cause serious, lethal diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and diffuse pleural thickening.
Due to its adverse nature, asbestos was banned in the 1990s, but many homes and properties built before 1980 may still harbour the substance in their home. Asbestos is most commonly found in insulation and roofing materials in garages and outbuildings, but can also be found in many places in the home, including:
- soffits
- ceiling tiles
- chimneys
- drain pipes
- Artex coverings
- flashing
- joint compound
- cisterns and water tanks
- wall panels
- floor tiles
- Artex coverings
Because asbestos is so dangerous yet difficult to identify, it is highly encouraged to get a building survey or asbestos survey before buying a new home and exchanging contracts to check that your new home is asbestos free and safe.
Further danger occurs when you move into your new home without knowing asbestos is present and you disturb it, which is also more likely if you are planning to refurbish or demolish your home. As a result, you cannot carry out a visual check yourself, you need a specialist to identify asbestos threats in your new home.
What’s more, an asbestos survey can determine whether the value of a property is affected by asbestos, including the cost to remove it. An asbestos survey can establish whether you have harmful asbestos in your home and advise on the best methods with as little hassle and harm as possible.
