Asbestos is a term that still causes worry for several homeowners in Derbyshire. Even though it was banned years ago, this dangerous material may still be hidden in your home in unexpected places. Asbestos remains a serious threat to homeowners today.
Did you know that approximately 4.9 million houses in the UK might still have garage roofs made from asbestos? This alarming number shows how widespread the problem is, even with the ban in this place.
We, at First Steps Derbyshire, want to keep you informed and safe with the latest local news and expert advice on asbestos risks in the area.
If you possess a property in Derbyshire or plan to renovate, it’s important to know where asbestos could be and how to deal with it safely.
Let’s get started to make sure your home stays safe.
The Importance of Asbestos and Its Risks
Asbestos is a mineral that was widely used in building materials because it is resistant to fire. People used it in roofing, insulation, flooring, and cement products for numerous years.
However, when the fibres in asbestos get disturbed, like during renovations or regular wear and tear, they can enter the air and cause serious health problems.
Breathing in asbestos fibres can lead to severe diseases like the following:
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Asbestosis
These diseases take years to develop, which means the risks might not be recognised until it’s too late, sometimes after damage has already occurred.
Why Asbestos Is Still a Threat in 2025
Even though the UK banned asbestos in construction in 1999, many older homes built before this time still contain it. This issue is especially noticeable in Derbyshire, where many houses were built during the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
Recent data from HSE found that about 5,000 die each year from illnesses related to asbestos. These diseases often take years to appear and are not curable. This shows that there are ongoing hazards, especially in buildings that have not been renovated or checked for a long time.
Common Places to Find Asbestos in Older Homes
If your home was built before 2000, it might still have hidden asbestos. Here are some familiar places to find it:
- Roofing Materials: Roofing materials like, tiles and corrugated sheets, contain asbestos, especially in older buildings.
- Insulation: Insultation in attics and around pipes may have asbestos.
- Ceiling Tiles: Ceiling tiles in houses built before the 1980s might have asbestos.
- Flooring: Some vinyl floor tiles and the glue used for them in older homes could contain asbestos.
- Garages and Boiler Covers: During renovations, people often ignore areas like cement boards, which might also have asbestos.
Asbestos can be hard to detect, as it has no smell or taste. If you suspect any materials might contain asbestos, it’s best to play it safe and have professionals check them.
Risks Associated with Home Renovations and Disruptions
You are more likely to be exposed to asbestos when you disturb older materials during renovations. Activities like replacing old flooring, tearing down walls, or renovating roofs can release harmful asbestos fibres into the air.
DIY renovations are a common cause of accidental asbestos exposure. Many people unknowingly disturb asbestos-containing materials while renovating their homes, putting themselves, their families, and neighbours at risk.
In the United Kingdom, regulations state that only certified professionals should handle any renovation work involving asbestos. This makes sure that the material is removed safely and disposed of by safety regulations.
How to Safely Deal with Asbestos in Your Home
If you think your home has asbestos, do not touch it. Wait for a certified expert to check and handle it. Removing asbestos is not a job for DIY. A qualified contractor can inspect the material, choose the best way to manage it, and safely remove it if needed.
The first step is to have a qualified asbestos inspection to find out if there are any risky substances in your home. These inspections help identify what needs to be eliminated and give you peace of mind that you’re protecting your family and belongings.
With 158 asbestos-related cancer deaths recorded between 2015 and 2019 in Derbyshire alone, we’re reminded…asbestos still poses a hidden threat in older homes.
If you’re planning renovations or suspect materials in your property may contain asbestos, don’t take chances; disturbing it can release dangerous fibres. “Many older properties in the UK suffer from asbestos, including those found in the areas of South London, Surrey and the South East,” says the team at Advance Asbestos Removal. “There’s no distinct sight or smell to the mineral, which means you’ll need a professional to be certain; and to remove it safely.”
If you suspect asbestos may be hiding in your garage, roof, or insulation, it is crucial to avoid disturbing it yourself. Visit advanceasbestosremoval.co.uk/ to learn more about licensed inspection and safe disposal options.
Infobox: Quick Facts About Asbestos
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in building materials because it had strong and resistant to heat. However, if it gets disturbed, it can release harmful fibres that can be dangerous to health.
Why was it banned?
The UK banned asbestos in 1999 because its fibres can cause serious illnesses like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis when people are exposed to them for a long time.
How do compensation claims still occur?
Even though asbestos is banned, illnesses related to it can take many years to appear. People still file claims for compensation if they were exposed to asbestos at work or from materials found in older buildings.
Conclusion
Asbestos was banned years ago, but it still hides in many older houses in Derbyshire, creating a hidden risk. If you reside in an old building, be cautious and check with a professional if you suspect asbestos might be present.
Following safety guidelines and hiring experts can protect you, your family, and your home from the serious dangers of asbestos exposure.
Don’t wait for a health problem to arise; take action now to ensure your home is safe. Stay informed, and stay safe.
Apart from this, if you want to design a space that feels truly personal, take a look at this comprehensive guide that will help you with methods to make your space feel like you.
