Asbestos Requirements for Damp Proofing Companies
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Requirements for Damp Proofing with Asbestos Regulations
If you work in damp proofing, you’re often drilling, cutting, or removing old plaster, render, or floors.
Many of these materials in pre-2000 buildings still contain asbestos.
Before any damp proofing work begins, you must understand your legal asbestos responsibilities.
This guide explains what checks are needed, what materials may contain asbestos, and how to stay compliant.
Why Damp Proofers Need to Consider Asbestos
Asbestos was widely used in buildings between the 1950s and 1990s.
You’ll often find it in the same places damp proofers work:
- Old plaster and textured coatings
- Bitumen adhesive under floor coverings
- Screed layers and subfloors
- Wall panels and render coatings
- Soffits, fascias and pipe lagging
Disturbing any of these during injection, chasing, or drilling can release asbestos fibres.
The Law: Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
Under the Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, anyone who may disturb asbestos during work must:
- Identify whether asbestos is present before starting work
- Assess the risk of exposure
- Plan work to avoid disturbing asbestos wherever possible
- Use trained personnel if asbestos is likely to be disturbed
- Stop work immediately if asbestos is found unexpectedly
The responsibility applies to both property owners and contractors carrying out damp proofing work.
What to Do Before Damp Proofing Work Starts
Follow these steps before you inject, cut, or drill into walls and floors:
- Check the building’s age – if built before 2000, assume asbestos may be present.
- Ask for the asbestos survey – the client or property owner should have a current survey.
- Review the asbestos register – identify any areas containing asbestos near your work.
- Request sampling or a refurbishment survey if work affects new areas.
- Do not proceed without written confirmation that the area is safe.
If the property has no survey, advise the client to contact Complete Asbestos Surveys to arrange one.
Common Asbestos Materials Found During Damp Proofing
Asbestos in Floor Layers
Asbestos can be found in vinyl floor tiles, bitumen adhesives, and screed.
Vinyl tiles were commonly used in schools, offices, and basements before the 1990s and often contained asbestos fibres for strength and durability.
The black bitumen adhesive used to fix these tiles in place may also contain asbestos, creating a double risk when removing old flooring.
Some older screed layers beneath the surface also included asbestos to improve fire resistance and bonding.
These materials are still often found in old kitchens, corridors, and basements, so testing before damp proofing work is essential.
Asbestos in Ceilings and Walls with Textured Coating
Asbestos was commonly used in Artex and textured coatings applied to ceilings and walls.
These decorative finishes were popular from the 1960s to the 1990s and often contained chrysotile (white asbestos).
Drilling, scraping or removing these coatings during damp proofing can release asbestos fibres, so testing is always recommended before work begins.
Asbestos in Pipe Lagging
Asbestos insulation was commonly used on heating and water pipes, especially in older properties.
These lagged pipes are often hidden beneath floorboards or behind walls, making them easy to miss during damp proofing or floor work.
If disturbed, the insulation can release high levels of asbestos fibres.
Knowing where to expect asbestos — particularly under floors and around old pipework — helps you plan safer, compliant work.
What Happens if You Disturb Asbestos
If you discover suspect material:
- Stop work immediately.
- Isolate the area.
- Do not sweep, scrape or vacuum the dust.
- Call a qualified asbestos surveyor to inspect and sample the material.
Continuing to work could lead to asbestos exposure and HSE enforcement action.
Working Safely Around Asbestos
Even if asbestos is present nearby, some work can continue with precautions:
- Keep dust to a minimum
- Use hand tools instead of power tools
- Wear disposable overalls and P3 masks
- Clean up with H-type vacuum and damp rags
- Dispose of waste at a licensed site
Never rely on guesswork — always confirm asbestos status before you start.
Why Partner with Complete Asbestos Surveys
We help damp proofing companies across Yorkshire comply with asbestos regulations.
Our services include:
- Management and refurbishment surveys before damp proofing
- Sampling and testing of suspect materials
- Clear reports showing where asbestos is located
- Advice on safe removal and control
Working with us ensures your projects stay safe and compliant from start to finish.
👉 Book an asbestos survey today
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an asbestos survey before damp proofing work?
Yes. Any building built before 2000 should have an asbestos survey before damp proofing starts. This ensures you don’t drill into asbestos materials.
Can damp proofing disturb asbestos?
Yes. Drilling, injecting or removing plaster, render or floors can easily disturb hidden asbestos fibres if you haven’t checked first.
Who is responsible for asbestos checks?
The duty holder — usually the property owner or managing agent — must ensure a survey is available. Contractors must also check the information before working.
What type of asbestos survey do I need?
A refurbishment survey is required if your damp proofing involves intrusive work such as drilling or removing walls and floors.
Do you work with damp proofing companies in Yorkshire?
Yes. We provide asbestos surveys for damp proofers across the Yorkshire and throughout the north of England.
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