Asbestos
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals made of microscopic fibres that are commonly found in rocks.
Building materials used to contain asbestos because of its strength and fire-resistant properties. It's no longer used in the UK, but is still present in many homes built before 2000. As long as it remains sealed and in good condition, it causes no problems. If it becomes damaged, however, it can release loose fibres into the air which, if breathed in, can cause health problems.
Where might you find asbestos in your home?
- textured wall coatings (e.g. Artex)
- pipe lagging
- floor tiles
- roof tiles
- gutters or downpipes
- flue pipes
- bath panels
- corrugated roof sheets
- mastics (adhesives) and putty
- door panels
- fuse guards
How do we manage asbestos?
We follow the recommendation of the Health and Safety Executive to leave undamaged asbestos in place. However, as part of our ongoing safety processes, we:
- survey properties for asbestos before instructing any works
- regularly check on the condition of asbestos-containing materials in communal areas
- manage, encapsulate or remove asbestos-containing materials when it is necessary to do so.
What can you do about asbestos?
- Get expert advice before starting DIY projects that could disturb asbestos. Drilling, sawing, sanding or scrubbing of an asbestos product may release asbestos fibres into the air.
- Let us know immediately if you suspect that asbestos in your property has become damaged.
- Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself. If it needs to be removed, we will instruct professional, qualified contractors to do this.
For more information
Call us on 0300 123 9966 or email ask@onehousing.co.uk