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A Practical Guide: What To Do If You Suspect Asbestos In Your Property
- Lewis Evans
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
(Includes Free Downloadable Checklists for Homeowners and Landlords)
Introduction
Asbestos is still present in many homes and commercial buildings across the UK, especially those built before 2000. If you think you’ve found asbestos, it’s important to stay calm and follow the right steps to keep everyone safe. This practical guide explains what to do - and includes free downloadable checklists to help homeowners, occupiers, landlords, and property managers manage asbestos safely and legally.
Step-by-Step Guide: What
To Do If You Suspect Asbestos
1. Don’t Disturb It
If you spot suspicious materials - like old pipe lagging, textured coatings (Artex), roof sheets, or floor tiles - don’t touch, drill, or try to remove them. Asbestos is dangerous when fibres are released into the air.
2. Stop All Work
Pause any renovations, repairs, or DIY. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can release hazardous fibres.
3. Inform Others
Let everyone who might access the area know about your concerns - family, tenants, contractors, etc.
4. Seek Professional Advice
Contact a certified asbestos surveyor to safely inspect and sample the material. Only trained professionals should handle suspected asbestos.
5. Get a Survey and Risk Assessment
A professional survey will identify the type and condition of any asbestos and provide a written report with recommendations.
6. Follow Recommendations
If asbestos is in good condition, it’s often safest to leave it alone and monitor it. If removal is needed, only licensed contractors should do the work.
7. Keep Records
Keep all reports and lab results - especially important for landlords and businesses, who have legal responsibilities under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Common Places Asbestos Is Found
Asbestos cement roof sheets and tiles
Textured decorative coatings (Artex)
Pipe and boiler lagging
Water tanks and toilet cisterns
Vinyl floor tiles
Asbestos insulating board (AIB)
Garage or shed roofs
Sprayed coatings and loose asbestos in cavities
Insulating boards, textiles, and composites
Free Downloadable Checklists
Take the stress out of managing asbestos concerns with our practical checklists. Download, print, and use them to stay safe and compliant.
Asbestos Safety Checklist for Homeowners & Occupiers
Tip: If in doubt, always ask a professional before starting any work!
Asbestos Management Checklist for Landlords & Property Managers
Tip: Good records and clear communication are your best protection!
Final Tips & Contact
If you suspect asbestos, don’t panic - just follow these steps and use our checklists to keep everyone safe. Acting quickly and safely protects your health, your family, and anyone working on your property.
Need professional advice or a survey?
📞 07859 895311
