Asbestos is found in things like textured walls and ceilings, roofing felt, guttering and some types of insulation. Most materials are relatively harmless if undisturbed but it is easy to damage them, which can release fibres that can cause serious health problems.
Find out about asbestos health risks
How to deal with asbestos
Always get expert advice if you think there's asbestos in your home.
Do not disturb it or try to remove it yourself. You should hire a qualified professional to remove asbestos safely from your home.
Find a licensed asbestos removal contractor
Asbestos must be treated with care. Always wear protective equipment.
Unless asbestos is damaged or disturbed then it's usually safer to leave it alone. It might be possible to repair or protect and reduce the risk, for example you can:
- prime and finish asbestos surfaces with emulsion or gloss paint
- cover asbestos sheeting with wallpaper or other non-asbestos boarding
- paint materials with a thick bitumen-based product
- seal with a PVA adhesive
How to dispose of asbestos
If you rent your home
Your landlord is responsible for dealing with unsafe asbestos. If you suspect there is asbestos in your home, you should report this to your landlord.
Shelter has guidance on how to:
- report asbestos to your private landlord or letting agent
- report asbestos to your housing association
If you own your home
Asbestos is classed as hazardous waste and you can only get rid of it at licensed disposal sites. You must never put asbestos in your bin at home. Shelter has advice on how to deal with asbestos in your home.
Some of our recycling centres will take small amounts of household asbestos. The asbestos containers are locked so you must contact our site operators before your visit. They'll explain the best way to handle the asbestos
Call 01387 750911 if you want to bring asbestos to a recycling centre.
Our recycling centres will not accept large amounts of asbestos from home construction and demolition projects or commercial activities. You should contact a specialist asbestos removal contractor for help.