Any potential homebuyer or seller will be understandably alarmed by any mention of asbestos. Firstly from the obvious health & safety implications, and secondly because of the possible effect on a property’s value when it comes to selling.
But is asbestos remediation the right choice for your property? Carry on reading as we answer some common questions about asbestos remediation and its benefits.
Why is Asbestos in the Home a Problem?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the UK construction industry throughout the last century. It was eventually banned after it was found that the fibres when inhaled can cause serious illnesses including several forms of cancer and mesothelioma.
Asbestos is still responsible for around 5,000 deaths a year, according to the Health & Safety Executive. Understandably, many homesellers will be concerned about the implications of asbestos being present in their property and will seek out the services of an asbestos remediation and removal company before putting their property on the market.
Which Properties Are Likely to Contain Asbestos?
Put simply any property built before 1999 has the potential of asbestos-containing materials being present. Prior to this – particularly before 1985 when some forms of asbestos were banned – it was common to use asbestos-containing material in homes (as well as commercial properties, especially public sector buildings) for a variety of applications. For example, asbestos in textured coating (artex), a popular type of ceiling decoration, is one of the most commonly known sources in the home.
In addition, asbestos may also be present in a variety of locations in the home, including:
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- Behind fireplaces
- Pipe lagging and insulation
- Floor Tiles
- Roofing materials
- Water tanks and boilers
- Insulating board (AIB)
These materials and any others expected to be asbestos-containing should be left undisturbed by anyone who is not trained and competent to do so.
Can I Sell a Property With Asbestos-Containing Materials?
Put simply, there’s no law against selling a home with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). However, it is illegal if you fail to disclose the presence of known asbestos to the seller, according to the Property Misdescriptions Act 1991 (Repeal) order 2013.
On top of this, once any potential buyer has been made aware of the presence of asbestos, it’s likely they will have concerns about the safety of its current condition. As a result of this, you may be asked to reduce your asking price significantly, or contribute to the buyer’s request for an asbestos inspection, remediation or removal service.
Why Do I Need an Asbestos Remediation Company?
As a result of asbestos sampling and an asbestos survey, an asbestos remediation company such as ourselves may be brought in to safely deal with the asbestos-containing materials, following the relevant health and safety guidance.
In some cases, the asbestos-containing materials may be left in situ, granted they are in good condition, and regular re-inspections would be advised as part of an asbestos management plan to keep on top of their state. ACMs can degrade over time and release fibres, and asbestos remediation may be the safest way to futureproof a property and provide a safe home to those who live there.
If you have any questions about asbestos remediation or removal before buying or selling a property, speak to a member of our team today.
