5. Asbestos safety
Asbestos is a material that was widely used in buildings before the year 2000 because it is strong and fire-resistant.
Asbestos is not dangerous if it is in good condition and left undisturbed. It only becomes a health risk if it is damaged or disturbed, which can release fibres into the air.
Where asbestos may be found
Asbestos can be present in homes built before 2000, often in materials such as:
- wall or ceiling panels
- pipe coverings
- floor tiles or textured coatings
The presence of asbestos alone should not cause concern.
What we do
- We have carried out asbestos surveys in almost all council homes.
- These surveys identify where asbestos-containing materials are and their condition.
- Asbestos is only removed when necessary. If it is in good condition and unlikely to be damaged, it is usually safer to leave it in place.
What you should do
Please contact us before:
- carrying out any DIY that involves drilling, cutting, scraping or sanding
- employing contractors to carry out work in your home
This allows us to check our records and arrange an inspection or survey if needed.
Do not disturb suspected asbestos materials yourself.
Report a concern
If you are worried about asbestos in your home, or you are planning DIY work, contact us via our Report a council housing fault or repair page for advice.