Asbestos was often used in building materials, added to products like insulation, garage roofing and vinyl floor tiles. However, the serious health risks became known, causing a full UK ban in 1999. It means many older properties still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). If you suspect its presence in your home, you need to monitor the situation carefully to avoid the risks of long-term health problems.

Here’s everything you need to know about safely getting rid of asbestos from your property.

How do I know if there’s asbestos at my house?

Firstly, please avoid DIY asbestos test kits, which can be both unreliable and unsafe. If you need to know if asbestos is present in your home or business premises, you can’t identify it just by looking at it. Asbestos fibres are microscopic, so the safest way to find out is to arrange a professional asbestos survey. A qualified surveyor will carefully take small samples and send them to a UKAS-approved lab for analysis.

Can I dispose of asbestos myself?

You may be wondering ‘is it safe to remove asbestos myself?’ – but the answer is a firm no! Even removing small amounts of asbestos is strongly discouraged unless you have the correct protective equipment and training. Disturbing asbestos without the proper controls in place can release hazardous fibres into the air, endangering you and others. Licensed asbestos removal contractors are trained to handle, remove and dispose of it safely and in line with UK regulations.

Can you take asbestos to the tip in the UK?

Want to know how to clean up after asbestos removal? Leave it to the professionals. While some local recycling centres in the UK accept small amounts of asbestos waste, not all do. You’ll need to check your local authority’s waste disposal page for specific advice. They will usually have rules in place about how much asbestos waste can be taken there per month (if at all), how it should be wrapped, maximum material sizes, the type of materials accepted, and other preparation requirements. Asbestos containers at the tip are kept locked for health and safety reasons.

What’s the best way to dispose of asbestos?

The safest and most reliable asbestos removal method is to hire a licensed asbestos removal company. They’ll handle the entire process from survey, risk assessment and removal to packaging and transportation to a licensed hazardous waste facility. Professional asbestos contractors follow strict Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines to prevent contamination and ensure all waste is disposed of in compliance with the law. You’ll also receive documentation to prove the waste has been handled and disposed of correctly.

How much does it cost to get rid of asbestos?

The cost of asbestos removal and disposal depends on the type, location and amount of asbestos. Small jobs, such as removing an asbestos garage roof, are usually less costly than larger or more complex work, like pipe insulation or internal wall boards. Never attempt a DIY asbestos removal, as this has major health risks. Get a free quote from a professional.

Professional asbestos removal London and Surrey – free quotes

Goodbye Asbestos is a trusted asbestos contractor in London, Surrey and the Home Counties, coming out to Sutton, Tadworth and beyond. Contact our team now.