Asbestos
Some of our properties built between the 1930s and the late 1990s will have some materials that contain asbestos. This page explains what asbestos is, how we keep your homes safe and what your responsibilities are.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks around the world. It’s cheap, strong, and heat resistant which is why it was used in construction for so long, but it can present a health risk in certain circumstances.
Asbestos is unlikely to be a danger to your health if it is undamaged and is left undisturbed. It is only dangerous if damaged, as it can release fibres. Fibres from damaged material can cause serious illness if they are breathed in on a regular basis and so it is important that it is treated carefully.
How we manage and keep you safe from asbestos at home
Surveying
We carry out annual surveys on the communal spaces of our blocks of flats and schemes to monitor the condition of any materials containing asbestos in these areas. We record where we find asbestos on a register which allows us to keep track of its condition and make contractors aware before they carry out any work.
We carry out asbestos surveys on our empty properties and homes and before any home improvements that we carry out. We also review the asbestos information before any repairs or renovations to protect you and our staff or contractors.
Regular Training
All our colleagues, and contractors, complete regular asbestos training.
The Law
We work in line with the legislation and the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) guidance. It is not necessary to remove asbestos that is in good condition if it is not likely to be disturbed. In these cases, we will normally leave the asbestos in place.
What do you need to do to stay safe?
Usually, no action is required on your part.
Don’t panic if you think you have asbestos containing materials in your home – remember, it is only an issue if it gets damaged or disturbed. We will not normally remove asbestos in your home unless it is likely to be disturbed. Don’t attempt to remove or disturb anything you think may contain asbestos. Contact us for permission if you wish to start any DIY work to your home. Even if you don’t think there is any asbestos, or you don’t think you will disturb any.
Asbestos can be found in:
- cold water tanks
- pipe lagging
- roof felt, sheets, and tiles
- textured coatings (such as artex ceilings and walls)
- fascia and soffit boards
- toilet cisterns
- wall panels
- fuse boards
- boiler/heater cupboard
- floor tiles
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rainwater guttering and downpipes
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garage roof sheets
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panels behind fires or heaters
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panels on the back of fire doors
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partition walls
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service ducts
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soil and vent pipes
If we contact you to let you know we need to arrange for an asbestos survey to be carried out, it’s important that you give us access to your home. If the time isn’t convenient for you, please let us know as soon as possible so we can rearrange with you.
Contact us if:
- you think you have damaged or disturbed asbestos in your home, you should contact us immediately by calling 0800 052 2526
- we will advise you further on what action will be necessary
For all other general queries regarding asbestos in your home you can speak to us on 0800 052 2526 or visit our online contact page.