Asbestos

Asbestos is a fibrous material that is made from several natural minerals found in rocks.  It has been used in building materials for about 150 years because it is strong, flexible, stable and fire proof.  You can't tell whether something contains asbestos simply by looking at it.  Often you can only find out by analysing it in a specialist laboratory.

We regularly survey and sample all our empty properties for any possible materials containing asbestos.  We have a legal duty to protect against the health risks posed by asbestos.

We need to know what materials containing asbestos may be in your home before starting any building work. If you don not allow the surveyor into your home it could delay the planned work. The appropriate precautions will be taken during any work on your home.

Asbestos is present in many buildings, although properties built since the mid-1990s are very unlikely to contain it. Generally, asbestos is perfectly safe if it is not disturbed or damaged. However if materials containing asbestos are, for example, drilled, cut or sanded, this can release fibres into the air. If the fibres are inhaled, they can be a health risk and can cause a range of serious illnesses.