The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos – Could Your Property Be at Risk?
Many people assume that if their property looks safe, it is safe. However, when it comes to asbestos, danger often lurks where you least expect it. Asbestos was widely used in building materials across Northern Ireland until its ban in 1999, meaning that countless homes, workplaces, and public buildings still contain it today. If disturbed, asbestos fibres can become airborne and pose a severe health risk, making professional asbestos surveys essential for identifying and managing this hidden hazard.
Where Is Asbestos Hiding in Your Property?
Asbestos isn’t always obvious. It was mixed into a variety of materials, making it difficult to detect without expert knowledge. Common locations where asbestos may be hiding include:
- Ceilings and Wall Panels – Artex coatings, insulating boards, and partition walls.
- Flooring – Vinyl tiles, linoleum, and the adhesives beneath them.
- Roofing and Guttering – Corrugated cement sheets, soffits, and downpipes.
- Boilers and Pipes – Insulation lagging around old heating systems.
- Garages and Sheds – Roofing materials, especially in pre-2000 constructions.
- Fire Doors and Fuse Boxes – Some older fire doors and electrical insulation boards contain asbestos.
Why Asbestos Exposure Is Dangerous
When asbestos materials are disturbed—during renovations, drilling, sanding, or even through natural deterioration—they release microscopic fibres into the air. These fibres can be inhaled and become lodged in the lungs, leading to serious diseases such as:
- Mesothelioma – A fatal cancer affecting the lung lining, almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure.
- Asbestosis – A chronic lung disease causing scarring and breathing difficulties.
- Lung Cancer – Linked to asbestos exposure, especially among those who also smoke.
The worst part? These diseases often take decades to develop, meaning exposure today could lead to severe health problems years down the line.
The Role of an Asbestos Survey
If you own or manage a property in Northern Ireland, getting an asbestos survey isn’t just about peace of mind—it’s a legal requirement for non-domestic buildings under the Control of Asbestos Regulations (NI) 2012. A professional asbestos survey will:
- Identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property.
- Assess the condition and risk level of any ACMs found.
- Provide expert guidance on how to manage or remove asbestos safely.
- Ensure you comply with health and safety regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
Don’t Take the Risk – Get a Professional Asbestos Survey
If you’re planning renovations, managing a rental property, or simply unsure whether asbestos is present in your building, a professional survey is the safest way forward. Our expert team provides thorough asbestos surveys across Northern Ireland, ensuring you get accurate information and the best advice for managing asbestos safely.
Don’t leave it to chance—contact us today to book your asbestos survey and protect your health, property, and legal compliance.
We are a team of professional asbestos surveyors working across Northern Ireland. If you require any help or information we are here to help. Please contact us on the number above to enquire or book your asbestos survey today.
