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Asbestos in the home

About asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral which was used in building construction and other specialised uses. Its properties of resistance to fire, alkali and acid led to its wide usage till the early 1970's.

In recognition of its hazardous properties, the supply and use of asbestos is now banned in the UK; however, asbestos can still be found in industrial or residential buildings built or refurbished before the year 2000.

When materials that contain asbestos are disturbed or damaged, fibres are released into the air. If inhaled, these fibres can cause serious diseases.

If asbestos materials are in good condition, and in a place where they are unlikely to be disturbed, then they should not cause any harm.

To find out where asbestos may be found in residential properties, please see the guidance on the Health and Safety Executive's website.

Please note that Private Sector Housing do not provide a service for surveys, identification, removal or disposal.

Specialist advice

If you are in any doubt as to whether asbestos is present, or if you are working on a product known to contain asbestos, you should leave it alone and seek specialist advice, as follows:

If you are a home owner

Contact a licensed asbestos removal company. They must be licenced by the Health and Safety Executive. Licenced asbestos removal companies can be found through the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA)

If you are on a works or construction site

Contact the Health and Safety Executive

If you are a Housing Association tenant

Contact your landlord or housing provider

If you are a council tenant

Please contact our Property Services Compliance Team

If you are a private tenant and have concerns

Contact us by email privatesectorhousing@waverley.gov.uk

Notice asbestos fly-tipped on public roads or council land in Waverley?

Report a fly-tip online