Asbestos is a rock and occurs naturally. It is mined and turned into fibres. Asbestos fibres are strong and heat resistant. During the 60s and 70s it was widely used in commercial and residential construction or wherever a hard wearing substance was needed. One popular use was in the flat surface of ironing boards where the iron stood.

Properties built since the mid 1980s are very unlikely to contain asbestos. Properties build after 1999 are extremely unlikely to contain asbestos anywhere in the building. Asbestos cement has been widely used as a cladding material and can still be found in garages and sheds.

Health and safety regulations now protect people against asbestos and its new use is generally banned in the UK.

Asbestos only becomes a risk when the fibres become airborne. They are then breathed in and many years’ later illness and damage to the lungs can occur. Asbestos will generally be released into the air if the material containing it is either drilled, sanded cut or broken. However this can also happened if it is in poor condition or becomes damaged.

When asbestos is in good condition and not damaged it is not a danger. Once disturbed and its dust gets into the air is there a possible risk to health.

Our specialist surveyor’s carry out sample surveys across all Hyde properties. We use the results to help us deal with your enquiries.

Our own Asset Management Team also acts as an internal coordinator for asbestos-related issues.

All residents moving into a Hyde property will be told whether the property contains asbestos or is expected to contain asbestos. A leaflet containing facts and contact information will be given to them.

Want to know more? Then contact us for advice.

Major Works

You should ask Hyde for approval if you are planning major work in your home. If you think asbestos is present we can offer advice.

However if alterations are of your own undertaking, then any costs of removing asbestos if it is found will be yours.

DIY Works

You should be cautious when carrying out any DIY work. The use of power tools could increase the amount of fibres released into your homes’ atmosphere.  Before any work, check for asbestos board. If you have any doubts contact Hyde for advice.

Decorating

Some textured ceiling coatings, Artex for example, are known to contain a small quantity of asbestos. Do not attempt to remove them especially with power tools. We can provide advice, so give us a call.

• Don’t panic. Contact us for advice
• Do not attempt to clean it up or repair it yourself
• Do not brush or vacuum as this will spread the fibres into the air.

For more information about asbsestos call us or contact:

• The Environment Agency, 08708 506 506
• The Health and Safety Executive website
• Or call your local council’s environmental department.