Asbestos is a word that strikes fear into the hearts of many homeowners. But do you really know where it hides, how dangerous it is, and what to do if you find it?
If your house was built before the late 1990s, there’s a chance it contains asbestos. So, how do you get rid of it without risking your health or breaking the law?
This guide breaks it down step by step—no fluff, just facts.
Page Contents
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made of tiny fibres. It was widely used in buildings for insulation, fireproofing, and strengthening materials.
But when those fibres become airborne and are inhaled, they can cause serious diseases:
- Mesothelioma: a rare and aggressive cancer.
- Asbestosis: scarring of the lungs leading to breathing problems.
- Lung cancer: especially in smokers exposed to asbestos.
According to the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), around 5,000 people die from asbestos-related diseases in Britain every year.
Where Could Asbestos Be Hiding in Your Home?
Before you start tearing down walls or renovating, ask yourself:
Do you know what you’re disturbing?
Common asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) include:
- Textured coatings (e.g., Artex ceilings)
- Floor tiles and the adhesive beneath them
- Insulation board panels in walls, ceilings, and doors
- Pipe lagging around boilers and hot water systems
- Roofing felt and cement sheets (especially in garages and sheds)
It’s not always obvious. Many materials look harmless until tested.
Should You Remove Asbestos Yourself?
The short answer? Usually not.
DIY asbestos removal is risky. But under certain conditions, you can legally and safely remove small amounts yourself.
Ask yourself:
- Is the material non-friable (i.e., not easily crumbled)?
- Is it in good condition, with no cracks or damage?
- Is it a small area (less than 1 square metre)?
If the answer to any of these is no, it’s time to call a licensed professional.
What You Can Remove Yourself (with Caution)
You may be allowed to remove low-risk materials like:
- Asbestos cement panels (e.g., garage roofs)
- Vinyl floor tiles (if they come up without breaking)
- Textured coatings (if using a specialist gel remover)
But remember: legal doesn’t mean safe.
How to Prepare for Safe Asbestos Removal
If you’re confident it’s safe and legal to proceed, preparation is key.
- Inform others in the household and keep pets away.
- Seal off the area using plastic sheeting and tape.
- Wear the right protective gear:
- Type 5/6 disposable overalls
- P3-rated face mask (FFP3 respirator)
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety goggles
- Wet the material before disturbing it to reduce dust.
- Have a waste disposal plan in place.
The Safe Removal Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Gently wet the ACM using a water spray mixed with a bit of detergent.
- Step 2: Loosen screws or fastenings carefully. Avoid breaking the material.
- Step 3: Double-bag the waste in heavy-duty plastic bags, clearly labelled as hazardous.
- Step 4: Use a HEPA vacuum or damp cloths to clean up.
- Step 5: Remove protective gear and dispose of it safely.
- Step 6: Wash thoroughly—don’t take risks.
How to Dispose of Asbestos Waste
You can’t throw asbestos in your wheelie bin.
Follow these steps:
- Contact your local council. Some offer free or low-cost disposal schemes.
- Use a licensed hazardous waste site.
- Never mix asbestos with general waste.
Find your local disposal facility through the GOV.UK asbestos disposal directory.
When to Call the Professionals
Not sure what you’re dealing with? Don’t guess.
Call in an asbestos surveyor or asbestos removal contractor licensed by the HSE if:
- The area is larger than 1 square metre.
- The asbestos is friable (easily crumbled).
- You need to use power tools or break the material.
- The asbestos is in an enclosed or hard-to-reach space.
Licensed contractors use:
- Negative pressure units
- Specialist containment methods
- HEPA vacuum systems
- Legal disposal certificates
Cost of Professional Asbestos Removal
You might be thinking, “Isn’t it too expensive?”
But what is your health worth?
- A garage roof removal could cost £500–£1,500.
- Whole-house asbestos surveys start around £200.
- Textured coating removal can cost £20–£45 per square metre.
Compare quotes, check HSE licensing, and read reviews.
Legal Considerations and Your Responsibilities
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, homeowners aren’t legally required to remove asbestos. But you must not expose others to its risks.
If you hire someone, even a builder, to work on a site with asbestos:
- They must be trained.
- They must carry out a risk assessment.
- You could be held liable if they are exposed and you didn’t inform them.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Risk?
Ask yourself:
- Are you certain it’s asbestos?
- Do you know how to remove it safely?
- Do you have the right gear and disposal plan?
If there’s any doubt, walk away. The risks to your health and legal exposure are too great.
Peace of mind often comes from professional help.
Removing asbestos isn’t just another DIY task. It’s a serious responsibility. Stay informed, stay cautious, and always put safety first.
Lois Lane is a professional blogger and a seasoned Content writer for wellhousekeeping.com. With a passion for simplifying complex Home Decor topics, he provides valuable insights to a diverse online audience. With four years of experience, Lois has polished his skills as a professional blogger.
