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Dealing with asbestos and lead

Asbestos is a natural mineral once widely used in building materials due to its durability and fire resistance. It may be present in homes built before 2000. Asbestos is not harmful if undisturbed and in good condition. However, if damaged, it can release fibres into the air that may pose health risks when inhaled over long periods. This can happen during maintenance or repair works if asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged (e.g. drilled, cut or sanded).

Complete a Home Improvements Form if you would like to make alterations to your home. We will give you our asbestos survey to confirm if and where asbestos-containing materials are present in your home. We will remove the asbestos, or make it safe, before any work that is required can go ahead.

Contact our Customer Services team if you notice damage – such as cracks, chips or fraying – to materials that may contain asbestos if you suspect your home was built before 2000. Examples of such materials include floor/ceiling tiles, insulation and Artex ceiling coating.

If you are concerned that asbestos-containing materials may have become damaged or disturbed, contact our Customer Services team. Where possible, isolate the area and await further instructions.

Places where asbestos can be found include:

roof sheets and tiles
fascia boards
exterior cladding
guttering and drain pipes
insulation to boilers
boiler flue pipes
storage radiators
textured wall and ceiling coatings (e.g. artex)
duct panels (access to pipe work)
infill panels (above, below or next to doorways/windows)
panels behind radiators/heaters
floor tiles
suspended ceiling panels
underside of stairs.

Asbestos in communal areas

We fully comply with our legal duty to manage asbestos in communal areas and we have programmes in place for surveying, monitoring and removing it.

We’ll look into the problem and confirm all details in writing.
If asbestos is present and in good condition, it is highly unlikely to pose a risk to your health and will not qualify for removal work.
If the asbestos is in poor condition we will manage it appropriately, either by protecting it or removing it with the help of an asbestos treatment specialist.

Please contact us on 0300 303 1010 to tell us about any suspected asbestos or if you would like any further information.

Lead

Lead can still be found in some older homes, especially in old paint, plumbing, roof parts, and decorative features. These will usually be safe if in good condition, but peeling paint or DIY work can release lead dust. Over time, lead exposure may cause tiredness, headaches, low iron, or affect children’s learning and behaviour. Pregnant women and young children are most sensitive.

To stay safe, avoid disturbing old paint and call us to check before doing any DIY that might create dust. If you’re concerned about exposure, your GP can provide advice.

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