ASBESTOS SURVEY & SAFETY

Frequently Asked Questions

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals composed of microscopic fibres. It was widely used in UK construction from the 1950s to 1999 because of its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. All forms are now banned. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, fibres become airborne and can be inhaled, causing serious lung diseases. For more information, see the HSE asbestos guidance. If you suspect asbestos in your property, book an asbestos survey with Liviosive.

What are the types of asbestos?

There are six types of asbestos. The three most common in UK buildings are: chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), and crocidolite (blue asbestos). All three are banned and all are dangerous. Crocidolite is considered the most dangerous due to the shape of its fibres. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 cover all six types. If you need asbestos identified in your property, contact Liviosive for a survey.

What is the most dangerous type of asbestos?

Crocidolite (blue asbestos) is the most dangerous type. Its thin, needle-like fibres penetrate deep into lung tissue and are most strongly linked to mesothelioma. Amosite (brown asbestos) is the second most dangerous. Chrysotile (white asbestos), though historically claimed to be safer, is also a confirmed carcinogen. All forms are equally banned under UK legislation. See the NHS guide to mesothelioma for health information.

Is asbestos man-made?

No. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in metamorphic rock formations worldwide. Major deposits exist in Russia, Canada, Kazakhstan, China, and South Africa. The risk arises from its extraction, processing, and incorporation into building materials — where fibres become friable and are released into the air when disturbed. If you need asbestos assessed in a building, book a Liviosive asbestos survey.

What does asbestos look like?

In its natural form, asbestos appears as soft, fibrous bundles within rock — similar to compacted wool. In manufactured products, asbestos is invisible to the naked eye because it is blended into materials such as cement boards, floor tiles, and Artex coatings. You cannot safely identify asbestos by sight alone — laboratory analysis is required. The HSE provides further guidance on identifying asbestos materials. Contact Liviosive to arrange testing.

What colour is asbestos?

Chrysotile (white asbestos) has white to off-white, silky fibres. Amosite (brown asbestos) is grey-brown with a brittle texture. Crocidolite (blue asbestos) has a blue-grey colour with straight, needle-like fibres. In manufactured products, colour alone does not indicate the presence or type of asbestos — only laboratory testing can confirm this. Liviosive arranges UKAS-accredited asbestos testing across all London boroughs.

Does asbestos smell?

No. Asbestos has no odour and cannot be detected by smell, taste, or sight once fibres are airborne. This makes it particularly dangerous — you can inhale significant quantities without any sensory warning. If you suspect asbestos in a property, do not disturb the material. Contact Liviosive for a professional asbestos survey or see the HSE asbestos FAQ.

Can you see asbestos fibres?

No. Individual asbestos fibres are microscopic — typically less than 3 micrometres in diameter, far thinner than a human hair. The dangerous respirable fibres that become airborne during disturbance are completely invisible. This is why asbestos is so hazardous. The HSE explains asbestos fibre risks in detail. Never disturb a suspected material — book professional asbestos testing through Liviosive.

Where Is Asbestos Found?

Where is asbestos found in buildings?

Asbestos can be found in buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000. Common locations: pipe and boiler lagging; ceiling tiles; floor tiles and their adhesive; Artex and textured coatings; asbestos cement roof sheets; partition walls (Asbestos Insulation Board); fire door cores; electrical panels; and spray-applied insulation on structural steelwork. The HSE asbestos pages provide a full materials list. Book a Liviosive management survey to identify all ACMs in your property.

Would a house built in 1976 have asbestos?

Yes. A 1976 property is very likely to contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Asbestos use in UK construction peaked between the 1950s and 1980s. In a 1976 property, common locations include Artex coatings, floor tiles and adhesive, pipe lagging, ceiling tiles, asbestos insulation board in partitions, and asbestos cement roofing. Any property built before 2000 should be treated as potentially containing asbestos. Book a residential asbestos survey with Liviosive before any renovation work.

Does Artex contain asbestos?

Artex and textured coatings applied before 1985 frequently contain chrysotile (white asbestos). Some products continued to contain asbestos until 1999. Any Artex applied before 2000 should be treated as potentially containing asbestos and must not be sanded, drilled, or scraped until tested. The HSE confirms this risk. Liviosive provides Artex asbestos testing across London with UKAS laboratory analysis.

How do I tell if Artex has asbestos?

You cannot tell whether Artex contains asbestos by looking at it. The only way to confirm is through laboratory analysis of a sample taken by a qualified surveyor. Do not sand, scrape, drill, or disturb it. The HSE advises treating all pre-2000 textured coatings as suspect. Liviosive arranges safe Artex sampling and laboratory testing throughout London.

Does plasterboard contain asbestos?

Standard plasterboard generally does not contain asbestos, but the jointing compound or textured finish applied over it may. Older Asbestos Insulation Board (AIB) — used instead of plasterboard in many 1960s–80s commercial buildings — does contain high concentrations of asbestos and is a high-risk material under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Book a Liviosive survey before any wall removal or refurbishment.

What does ACM stand for in asbestos?

ACM stands for Asbestos-Containing Material — any material containing more than 1% asbestos by weight. ACMs must be identified through an asbestos survey, recorded in an asbestos register, and managed under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The regulations apply to all non-domestic premises. Liviosive produces asbestos registers and management plans for landlords, businesses, and property managers across London.

What does AIB stand for in asbestos?

AIB stands for Asbestos Insulation Board — one of the most hazardous asbestos-containing materials found in UK buildings. It was used extensively in partition walls, ceiling tiles, fire door cores, and heating panels in commercial buildings from the 1940s to the 1980s. AIB typically contains 15–40% asbestos by weight. Its removal requires an HSE-licensed asbestos contractor. Contact Liviosive to arrange an AIB survey.

What do asbestos floor tiles look like?

Asbestos floor tiles are typically 9-inch or 12-inch square in solid or mottled colours — commonly grey, black, brown, cream, or terracotta. They have a hard, vinyl-like surface and were widely used in kitchens, corridors, and commercial buildings from the 1940s to 1980s. The black adhesive beneath them may also contain asbestos. Undamaged tiles can often be managed in place — Liviosive can survey and advise. See the HSE guidance on floor tiles.

When Was Asbestos Banned?

When was asbestos banned in the UK?

Asbestos was banned in stages. Blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) asbestos were banned in 1985. White asbestos (chrysotile) was banned on 24 November 1999. The full legislative ban is the Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations 1999. However, asbestos installed before these dates remains in millions of UK buildings. Liviosive surveys properties across London to identify and manage legacy ACMs.

When was white asbestos banned in the UK?

White asbestos (chrysotile) was banned in the UK on 24 November 1999 under the Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations 1999. Blue asbestos (crocidolite) and brown asbestos (amosite) had been banned earlier, in 1985. Despite the ban, chrysotile remains present in buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000. Liviosive identifies and manages all types of asbestos in London properties.

When was asbestos first used in the UK?

Asbestos was first used commercially in the UK in the late 19th century, with industrial-scale use beginning around the 1870s–80s. Widespread use in construction and manufacturing expanded significantly after World War II, peaking in the 1960s and 1970s. Use declined after formal health concerns were acknowledged. Any building from this era may contain asbestos — book a Liviosive survey to confirm.

When did they stop using asbestos in Artex?

Most Artex manufacturers stopped using asbestos around 1984–85, following the voluntary phase-out of blue and brown asbestos. However, some products continued to contain chrysotile (white asbestos) until 1999. Any Artex or textured coating applied before 2000 should be treated as potentially containing asbestos and tested before disturbance. The HSE confirms this guidance. Liviosive arranges safe Artex testing across London.

Health Risks and Disease

Why is asbestos dangerous?

Asbestos is dangerous because its microscopic fibres, when inhaled, become permanently lodged in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. The body cannot expel them. Over decades, they cause inflammation, scarring, and DNA damage that leads to mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural disease. The NHS explains asbestos-related conditions. The HSE sets out control duties. Protect your property with a Liviosive asbestos survey.

Does asbestos cause cancer?

Yes. Asbestos is classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen. It causes mesothelioma and significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. The UK has around 2,700 mesothelioma deaths per year — one of the highest rates in the world. See the NHS mesothelioma page and the NHS lung cancer page for clinical information. Liviosive helps landlords and businesses manage asbestos safely.

What is asbestosis?

Asbestosis is a chronic, progressive lung disease caused by long-term inhalation of asbestos fibres, leading to scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue. Symptoms include breathlessness, persistent cough, and chest tightness. It is not curable and has a latency period of 10 to 40 years. See the NHS asbestosis page for full clinical details. To prevent exposure, ensure asbestos in your property is properly managed — book a Liviosive survey.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer of the pleural lining (surrounding the lungs), abdomen, or heart — almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Median survival from diagnosis is 12 to 18 months. It typically develops 30 to 45 years after initial exposure. The NHS provides full mesothelioma information. The HSE tracks mesothelioma statistics. To protect your tenants and employees, book an asbestos survey with Liviosive.

What are the first signs of asbestos poisoning?

Asbestos does not cause immediate symptoms. Signs of asbestos-related disease typically emerge 20 to 50 years after exposure and include: persistent breathlessness, a dry persistent cough, chest pain or tightness, and finger clubbing. Anyone with asbestos exposure history who develops respiratory symptoms should see a GP urgently. The NHS lists symptoms in detail. If you are concerned about asbestos in your property, contact Liviosive immediately.

How long after asbestos exposure do symptoms appear?

Asbestos-related diseases have a latency period of 20 to 50 years. Mesothelioma most commonly presents 30 to 45 years after exposure. Asbestosis may appear in 10 to 20 years after sustained heavy exposure. Even brief or low-level exposure can cause disease in some cases. The NHS provides guidance on what to do if you were exposed. To protect your property and occupants now, book a Liviosive asbestos management survey.

How much asbestos exposure is dangerous?

There is no established safe level of asbestos exposure. The UK Workplace Exposure Limit is 1 fibre per cubic centimetre of air — a regulatory control level, not a safe level. Risk increases with duration and intensity. Even incidental exposure from DIY work in pre-2000 buildings carries risk. The HSE explains exposure limits. Protect yourself by arranging professional asbestos identification through Liviosive before any work.

Can asbestos kill you?

Yes. Asbestos causes approximately 5,000 deaths per year in the UK — more than road traffic accidents. Diseases include mesothelioma (no cure; median survival 12–18 months), asbestos-related lung cancer, and asbestosis. The UK has one of the world’s highest mesothelioma death rates. See the NHS mesothelioma page for clinical information. Prevent exposure in your property by booking a Liviosive asbestos survey.

What are the 4 major asbestos-related diseases?

The four major asbestos-related diseases are: (1) Mesothelioma — cancer of the pleural or peritoneal lining; (2) Asbestos-related lung cancer; (3) Asbestosis — chronic lung fibrosis; (4) Diffuse pleural thickening — scarring of the pleural membrane. All have latency periods of 10 to 50 years. See the NHS asbestosis page and mesothelioma page. To manage asbestos safely in your property, book a Liviosive survey.

Identifying Asbestos

How do I identify asbestos?

You cannot safely identify asbestos by sight alone. The only way to confirm its presence is laboratory analysis of a material sample. Do not touch, drill, sand, or disturb suspected material. The HSE explains safe identification procedures. Liviosive surveys identify and test all asbestos-containing materials using UKAS-accredited laboratories across all London boroughs.

How do I test for asbestos?

Asbestos testing requires a sample of the suspected material to be taken by a trained surveyor and sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM) analysis. Do not attempt to sample materials without proper training and PPE. The HSE outlines safe sampling requirements. Liviosive arranges asbestos testing with full UKAS laboratory reports across London.

Can I check if my house has asbestos?

The only reliable way to check is a professional asbestos survey. You cannot determine asbestos presence by looking at materials. If your property was built before 2000, treat suspected materials as asbestos until tested. The HSE advises this approach for all pre-2000 buildings. Book a Liviosive residential asbestos survey — we cover all London boroughs.

Is Artex dust dangerous?

Yes, if the Artex contains asbestos — which is likely if applied before 1985 and possible before 2000. Sanding, scraping, or drilling Artex releases fibres into the air. This is a common source of accidental asbestos exposure for DIY workers. The HSE specifically warns about textured coating risks. Before any ceiling or wall work, arrange Artex asbestos testing with Liviosive.

How do I spot asbestos floor tiles?

Asbestos floor tiles are typically 9-inch or 12-inch square in solid or mottled colours. Key indicators: tile size (9×9 inch is a strong era indicator), black adhesive beneath (which may itself contain asbestos), brittleness at edges, and property age. Visual identification alone is not sufficient — laboratory testing is required. Liviosive surveys and tests floor tiles and advises whether management-in-place or removal is needed. See HSE floor tile guidance.

Asbestos Surveys

What is an asbestos survey?

An asbestos survey is a formal inspection to identify, locate, and assess asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, two survey types are defined: a Management Survey (for occupied buildings) and a Refurbishment/Demolition Survey (required before construction or renovation work). Both result in a written report, asbestos register, and management plan. Liviosive provides both survey types across all London boroughs.

When is an asbestos survey required?

An asbestos management survey is required for all non-domestic premises under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. A refurbishment/demolition survey is required before any construction, renovation, or demolition work in any pre-2000 building — residential or commercial. Planning applications for pre-2000 buildings increasingly require survey evidence. Book a Liviosive survey to meet your legal obligations.

When is an asbestos report required for commercial property?

An asbestos management report is required for all non-domestic properties under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. The duty holder must ensure a suitable assessment is carried out, producing an asbestos register and management plan. A refurbishment/demolition survey report is additionally required before any renovation work. Liviosive provides commercial asbestos surveys and written reports across London — see the HSE duty to manage guidance.

What is the purpose of an asbestos register?

An asbestos register records the location, type, condition, and risk level of all known or presumed ACMs within a non-domestic building. It is required under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, must be kept up to date, and made available to anyone carrying out work in the building. Failure to maintain a register is a breach of health and safety law. Liviosive produces asbestos registers and management plans for landlords, businesses, and property managers.

How much does an asbestos survey cost?

Asbestos survey costs in London depend on property size and survey type. A management survey for a small domestic property starts from approximately £150 to £250. A commercial management survey starts from £250 to £500+. A refurbishment/demolition survey costs more due to its intrusive nature. Contact Liviosive for a transparent fixed-price quote — we cover all London boroughs. Liviosive also provides EICR inspections, gas safety certificates, and fire risk assessments to cover all compliance needs.

Does a house survey check for asbestos?

A standard RICS homebuyers survey does not include asbestos testing. The surveyor may note that the property age means ACMs may be present, but no sampling or testing is carried out. If you are buying a pre-2000 property, commission a separate asbestos survey. Liviosive provides residential asbestos surveys across London. We also provide EPCs and electrical safety certificates (EICR) to support property transactions.

Asbestos Regulations and Responsibilities

Who does the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 apply to?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 apply to all duty holders of non-domestic premises — building owners, landlords, employers, and facility managers. This includes offices, shops, schools, hospitals, warehouses, and common areas of residential blocks. Single private domestic dwellings are exempt, but HMOs and common areas of residential buildings are not. Liviosive helps landlords and businesses meet their CAR 2012 obligations. We also provide fire risk assessments and EICR certificates for full compliance.

Who is responsible for managing asbestos risk?

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the duty to manage asbestos rests with the duty holder — typically the building owner, landlord, or person responsible for maintenance. In shared buildings, the landlord is responsible for common areas and each occupier for their own space. Duty holders must assess risk, prepare a management plan, implement controls, and review regularly. Liviosive supports duty holders with surveys, registers, and management plans. See also our full property compliance services.

Does COSHH cover asbestos?

COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002) covers most hazardous substances, but asbestos is governed by its own separate, more stringent framework — the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Asbestos is specifically excluded from COSHH because its risks require dedicated controls. The HSE provides detailed asbestos regulatory guidance. Liviosive ensures full CAR 2012 compliance for your property.

How long does an asbestos awareness certificate last?

Asbestos awareness training certificates (UKATA or IATP) are recommended to be renewed annually. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and HSE guidance require that training is adequate and kept up to date. Employers must ensure any employee who may encounter asbestos-containing materials receives current, appropriate training. Contact Liviosive for asbestos survey and compliance support.

Asbestos Removal and Disposal

Can I remove asbestos myself?

In the UK, some minor asbestos removal (e.g. small quantities of asbestos cement sheets or intact floor tiles) can be carried out by unlicensed workers under strict conditions. All licensed asbestos materials — AIB, thermal insulation, spray coatings — must be removed by an HSE-licensed asbestos contractor. DIY removal is strongly discouraged due to serious health risks. Contact Liviosive for advice and survey support before any asbestos-related work.

How much does asbestos removal cost?

Removal costs vary by material type, quantity, and whether licensed contractors are required. Minor unlicensed removals may cost £200–£500. Licensed AIB or lagging removal typically costs £500 to several thousand pounds. Asbestos cement garage roof removal in London costs approximately £1,000–£3,000. Always get at least three quotes from licensed contractors — see the HSE licensed contractor register. Liviosive provides asbestos surveys to determine scope before removal.

How do I dispose of asbestos?

Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous waste under the Hazardous Waste Regulations and must be double-wrapped in clearly labelled polythene bags, transported by a registered hazardous waste carrier, and disposed of at a licensed hazardous waste facility. You cannot place asbestos in a skip or general waste bin. Check GOV.UK for hazardous waste disposal guidance. Liviosive can advise on the full process.

Can asbestos be buried?

No. Burying asbestos is illegal. It is classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of at a licensed hazardous waste facility under the Hazardous Waste Regulations. Burying asbestos on your own land is a criminal offence enforceable by the Environment Agency with significant fines. All asbestos waste must be transported by a registered hazardous waste carrier with a fully traceable waste transfer note. Contact Liviosive for compliant asbestos management support.

Can asbestos burn?

Asbestos fibres themselves are non-combustible — this was why asbestos was widely used as a fireproofing material. However, many asbestos-containing materials contain organic binders that can burn. Burning does not destroy asbestos fibres — it releases them into the air uncontrolled. Burning asbestos waste is illegal in the UK and creates a serious health and environmental hazard. The HSE provides further guidance. Liviosive manages asbestos safely and legally.

Claims and Compensation

Can I claim compensation for asbestos exposure?

Yes. If you were exposed to asbestos and have developed an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or asbestos-related lung cancer, you may be entitled to compensation. Claims can be made against former employers, through the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme, or via HMRC Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. The NHS provides information on support available. Consult a specialist asbestos disease solicitor promptly — strict time limits apply. To prevent further exposure in your property, book a Liviosive asbestos survey.

Can I sue my landlord for asbestos exposure?

Yes, in principle. If a landlord knew or ought to have known about asbestos-containing materials, failed to manage them safely under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, and you developed an asbestos-related disease as a result, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Seek advice from a specialist asbestos disease solicitor. The NHS provides mesothelioma resources. Landlords: protect yourselves and your tenants with a Liviosive asbestos management survey.

How long do asbestos claims take?

Straightforward mesothelioma claims through the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme can be resolved in 3–6 months. Contested employer liability claims may take 12–36 months. Courts often fast-track cases where the claimant is seriously ill. The NHS mesothelioma page has further guidance. Always instruct a specialist asbestos disease solicitor promptly. Landlords and building owners: ensure your compliance is in order — book a Liviosive survey today.

Full Property Compliance — All Liviosive Services

Liviosive provides all legally required property safety certificates for landlords, businesses, and homeowners across London. Book multiple services together for a combined visit discount.

→ Asbestos Survey London

→ EICR — Electrical Safety Certificate

→ Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)

→ Fire Risk Assessment

→ Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

→ PAT Testing

→ All Liviosive Services