How a home survey can help you deal with asbestos
Finding asbestos in a home – whether a property you own or one you plan to purchase – automatically makes everyone’s hearts sink. These days, asbestos is rightly linked with lung disease, mesothelioma and asbestosis, so discovering that it’s lurking in a building of interest would naturally make you uncomfortable.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring, crystal-shaped fibre, and it’s dangerous. However, like all risks, it can be managed with sensible precautions, measures and a careful action plan. The property itself won’t be condemned except in the most serious of circumstances, and it’s much more likely that you can have the asbestos removed completely or simply left alone. In this state, it’s harmless.
Here’s how a home survey can help you deal with asbestos and what you should do if it’s found.
Why is asbestos a problem in homes?
Although it was completely banned in November 1999 for health reasons under The Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations, asbestos was an excellent building material. A natural fibre, it’s terrific for trapping warmth in a home, coming with properties such as fire resistance, sound-dampening and good electrical insulation. It’s also straightforward to shape and work with.
Asbestos is naturally-occurring and has been used (in some shape or form) for thousands of years. However, it became popular in the UK during the Industrial Revolution, peaking during the mid-1900s as it was widely marketed as a miracle material. There are six types, but the most commonly found in the UK are crocidolite (blue asbestos), chrysolite (white) and amosite (brown).
When used in construction as a building material, asbestos really is a miracle material. However, it was eventually realised that asbestos causes lung disease. It’s the asbestos fibres that can cause so much damage. When they’re held together by other materials, they’re harmless. When disturbed, though, the fibres can get into the air and, from there, into the lungs.
Asbestos fibres are so strong (the characteristic that makes them such a good construction material) that the human body can’t break them down. They physically cut into the lung tissue in a process that can take years or even decades.
Where should I look for asbestos in a new home?
Any home built before 2005 could contain asbestos. The legislation banning it came into force in late 1999, so builders continued to use it until then. You might also find Artex on the ceilings or walls. Artex has the same job as plaster but contains a small amount of asbestos.
Remember that the law eradicating the production and use of new asbestos came in during 1999. Any ‘on the shelf’ products produced before that date could still contain asbestos. They may have been used on a property during the following year or two. Therefore, you can’t definitively say that 21st Century houses are entirely asbestos-free (although they probably are).
You can find it in roof tiles, insulation, fire-prevention items, facias, toilet seats… the list goes on. Asbestos is mixed into materials. As a result, it’s virtually impossible to spot it with the naked eye if you don’t know what to look for. That’s why bringing in a professional is so important. If you’re buying a new home, you should always get an asbestos survey done, although this doesn’t apply to brand new homes or buildings constructed after 2005 (unless you want to be absolutely sure).
How can a home survey help with asbestos?
A chartered surveyor is trained to spot the materials typically containing asbestos. They know what to look for, reassuring you that your home is asbestos-free. During a home survey, the inspector will take an in-depth look around the house. They’ll note down any asbestos they find and inform you in the report. They will advise on its location and recommend that it’s tested through laboratory testing.
It’s most important to get a home survey for any historic property from the Victorian times and onwards, up to 1999. 1950 to 1970 was asbestos’s peak, around when people realised the terrible health impacts it was having. Remember that even if asbestos wasn’t initially present in a building, it might have been refurbished at some point, and you could find it lurking somewhere unexpected.
After the home survey, you’ll receive a professional, easy-to-understand inspection report. If the chartered surveyor spots any signs of asbestos, they’ll record it here. They’ll then recommend a plan of action, which may involve asbestos removal (expensive but sometimes necessary) or a ‘leave and manage’ approach. This is much simpler and absolutely fine if you never plan to disturb the material. However, you’ll need to check it periodically and must inform any contractors who come to work on it – even if it’s only a little wiring or plumbing.
Under The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, you must have a survey done if you buy a block of flats built before 1999. It’s considered a duty of care to all tenants, guests, and visitors.
How GB Home Surveys can help
Our team of highly trained, experienced and qualified RICS-registered chartered surveyors are always on the lookout for asbestos. We know what to spot and what to recommend as the best course of action based on its condition, location, and your needs and budget.
It’s important to remember that asbestos isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker. A chartered surveyor will discuss with you – in detail – the exact problem, how dangerous it is, and what your options are. You can then make an informed decision about how best to proceed.
Get in touch with us today to organise a home survey, including a check for asbestos. Use the contact form below or, if you prefer, drop us an email: contact@gbhomesurveys.co.uk. Alternatively, we’re available by phone at 03333 600 685 and always happy to have a friendly, obligation-free chat.
