Asbestos is considered a highly hazardous substance, but it was commonly used in building materials in the UK before its total ban in 1999. When disturbed, the tiny fibres can become airborne and cause genuine health risks, known to be a leading cause of asbestosis, mesothelioma and some types of lung cancer. While it’s no surprise property owners want to identify asbestos quickly and cheaply, DIY asbestos testing kits come with risks. Here’s everything you need to know.

How reliable are home asbestos testing kits?

DIY asbestos test kits seem like a convenient choice to many, but their accuracy is affected by various controls. The kits typically require you to collect asbestos samples yourself before sending them to a laboratory for analysis. Unfortunately, improper sampling (even by a small margin) can give false results. Contamination, inadequate packaging and mishandling are common issues, and it’s easy to take samples that don’t truly represent the material in question.

Is it safe to test asbestos yourself?

No – testing asbestos yourself can be highly dangerous. As soon as asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they can release microscopic fibres that you can’t see or smell, but will remain in your lungs for life. Professional asbestos surveyors wear protective equipment, use sealed sampling techniques, and follow strict asbestos regulations to prevent exposure and contamination. A DIY test kit can’t offer that level of safety.

How big a sample is needed for asbestos testing

For professional asbestos analysis in a lab, often only a very small piece of material is needed (coin size). However, the location and collection method are critical. Professional surveyors understand how to take a representative asbestos sample without causing fibre release or significant material damage.

What’s the easiest way to test for asbestos?

The easiest and safest asbestos sampling method is hiring a licensed asbestos surveyor. These trained professionals can identify potential ACMs while at your site, take safe samples and provide accurate test results from UKAS-approved labs. This saves time, lowers risk and ensures compliance with regulations.

Can you do asbestos air testing yourself?

No – airborne asbestos testing requires specialist pumps, filters and analysis under high-quality microscopes in accredited laboratories. DIY kits may not assess airborne fibre concentrations accurately or safely.

How much does it cost to get an asbestos sample

Professional asbestos sampling and testing costs will vary, depending on the ACM location and the complexity of the task. While it will cost you more than a DIY asbestos test kit, it’s a small price to pay for safe, accurate results and peace of mind. When you consider the potential health risks and legal consequences of mishandling asbestos, expert testing is the only choice.

Get professional asbestos sampling in London and Surrey

Goodbye Asbestos is a leading asbestos surveyor in London, Surrey and the Home Counties, coming out to Merton, Milford and beyond. For more advice, get in touch.