Asbestos advice
This information is available as a leaflet and in a variety of
formats including large print and different languages for mhs homes
customers. To obtain a copy please call 01634 565333.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos was extensively used as a building material in the UK
from the 1950s through to the mid-1980s, and was fully banned in
1999. However, homes built since the mid 1980’s are less likely to
contain asbestos.
Why was Asbestos Banned?
When Asbestos materials age or become damage they can release
fibres into the air. If these fibres are breathed into the lungs ,
this could result in asbestos related diseases.
It is extremely unlikely that the levels of asbestos fibre found
in your home will be. Asbestos does not pose a risk to health if it
is undamaged or in a position where cannot be easily disturbed.
Where is asbestos used?
Asbestos was used in building materials principally to provide
thermal insulation and fire protection. It was also used as a
filler material in a wide range of building products such as:
- Floor tiles
- Textured coating (Artex)
- Toilet cisterns
- Soffits
- Gutters and downpipes
What are the health risks?
Asbestos in your home is not necessarily dangerous. If it is in
good condition and not disturbed, there is no risk to your health.
It becomes more of a hazard when it is damaged or if the material
is drilled, sawn, sanded, scrubbed or removed by an unqualified
person or contractor.
If you are unsure if a material contains asbestos it is safer to
presume it does and do not tamper with it.
Can I make improvements to my home?
Regardless of whether or not you think asbestos is present,
before you start any DIY improvements to your home, you must get
written permission from us as required by your tenancy agreement.
We also provide you with information on asbestos containing
materials and advice on how to avoid damaging them.
What should you do if you think there is asbestos in your
home?
Do not disturb any material you suspect may contain
asbestos. If you damage asbestos or suspect damaged asbestos
in your home contact mhs homes immediately.
How is the asbestos in my home managed?
We have a duty to manage the risks that the asbestos may pose.
Asbestos was used in all sorts of building materials and it is
impossible to tell whether something contains asbestos just by
looking at it, which is why we arrange for a professional asbestos
surveying company to inspect your home prior to having planned
works being carried out such as a new kitchen, bathroom or heating
installation.
Where responsive repairs are undertaken, we will take
samples of any suspect material prior to completing the
repair.
Once we have checked for asbestos, we will be able to manage any
asbestos that is present. Damaged materials that cannot be suitably
managed will be removed.
Asbestos waste is classified as hazardous waste. It can only be
disposed at a site licensed by the Environment Agency. It is
against the law to bury asbestos waste, to put it in your normal
dustbin or an unlicensed Local Authority waste disposal site. We
ensure that only Approved Licensed Asbestos Removal Contractors
carry out asbestos removal and disposal.
How can I find more information?
mhs homes holds records of where any asbestos has been found so
far, and where any suspect asbestos may be located. We will
continue to update these records as more information becomes
available.
Contact our Customer Service Team on 01634 565333 if you suspect
you have asbestos in your home or if you would like more
information or a home visit, alternatively please contact us via
e-mail at assetmanagement@mhs.org.uk
Advice Leaflet
Read the Asbestos Advice
leaflet for more information (PDF 315KB)