Asbestos
Asbestos was widely used in building materials until its use was banned in the UK in 1999. If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and left undisturbed, they generally do not present a risk. However, if they are drilled, cut, sanded, damaged or deteriorate over time, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and inhaled.
Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos may sometimes be found in textured coatings, floor tiles, pipe boxing, ceiling panels, insulation boards, service cupboards, soffits, roofing materials and other building products in older properties.
Our responsibilities as your landlord
Where required, we commission asbestos surveys for buildings built or refurbished before 2000 and maintain records of known or presumed asbestos-containing materials.
We maintain an asbestos register and management plan, monitor known asbestos-containing materials, and provide information to contractors and others who may need to work on or near them.
We only remove or repair asbestos containing materials when repair or renovations are needed, in line with UK safety rules.
Where asbestos is known to be present in communal areas, we will manage it appropriately and monitor its condition through our inspection programme.
From mid 2025, we will start labelling known asbestos areas in communal interior spaces, where safe and practical to do so (excluding outside or roof areas).
Your responsibilities as a tenant
Before carrying out any DIY, decorating, alterations, installing shelving, TV brackets, curtain rails, or similar works, contact your Housing Officer to check whether asbestos may be present.
Never scratch, drill, or break any materials that may contain asbestos - even if you think they might be harmless.
Do not allow third-party contractors, friends or family members to carry out alterations or drilling without first checking with us whether asbestos may be present.
If you accidentally disturb something that may contain asbestos
- Stop work immediately.
- Do not sweep, vacuum or brush up dust.
- Keep people away from the area.
- Close the door if possible.
- Wash exposed hands and clothing normally.
- Contact us immediately for advice and inspection.
The presence of asbestos does not automatically mean there is a danger. In many buildings asbestos-containing materials are safely managed in place for many years. The greatest risk comes from disturbing, damaging or drilling into those materials.
Report any damaged materials, debris, broken ceiling panels, damaged boxing-in, or concerns about asbestos immediately via our General Repairs phone number.
