How to Identify Asbestos
Posted
Summary of the blog –
- Asbestos often hides in older insulation, roofing, and flooring
- You cannot confirm asbestos by sight alone
- Testing must be done by an accredited asbestos surveyor
- If confirmed, manage or remove based on its condition
- Complete Asbestos Surveys offers testing, management and removal
How to Identify Asbestos
Identifying asbestos in a building is not always easy. Many materials look harmless but may still contain asbestos fibres.
If you own or manage a property built before 2000, there’s a chance asbestos could be present. Here’s how you can start to identify it — and what to do next.
Visual Clues for Asbestos
Many older buildings used asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in construction. You might find it in:
- Corrugated cement roof sheets
- Floor tiles and tile adhesive
- Pipe insulation
- Artex textured coatings
- Partition boards and ceiling panels
The asbestos can be white, brown, or blue in appearance, but colour alone won’t confirm anything.
Explore our asbestos gallery to see real-world examples. You’ll be surprised by the variety!
Where Asbestos Is Usually Found
Domestic Properties (Pre-2000)
Even though we don’t survey domestic homes, understanding common asbestos hotspots is useful check out this guide here.
- Loft pipe lagging
- Bitumen floor tile adhesive
- Garage roofs
- Older boilers
- Wall panels
Commercial and Agricultural Properties
This is where we operate. We’ve surveyed:
- Domestic properties
- Commercial properties
- Industrial properties
Each case is different, and a full survey is the only way to confirm asbestos safely.
Testing for Asbestos
You can’t confirm asbestos visually. Testing is essential.
Never try to collect a sample yourself. Doing so risks releasing dangerous fibres into the air.
Instead:
- Contact a professional asbestos surveyor
- Allow them to safely collect and send the sample to a UKAS-accredited lab
- Review the detailed lab report for confirmation
We carry out asbestos testing services for all commercial and industrial buildings across the UK.
What Happens After Asbestos Is Identified?
If the Asbesotos Is Intact
In most cases, the safest course is to leave the ACM in place. If it’s in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, removal may not be necessary.
This is where a formal asbestos management plan comes in. It includes:
- Monitoring
- Risk assessments
- Scheduled re-inspections
- Clear documentation
We help building managers keep their staff and visitors safe through practical, real-world asbestos management.
If the Material Is Damaged
When an ACM is cracked, crumbling, or exposed to frequent contact, it can release airborne fibres.
At this stage, asbestos removal may be required.
Our asbestos removal partners handle:
- Asbestos cement
- Textured coating (Artex)
- Encapsulation
The best method depends on location, condition, and access.
Speak to us about your options before taking action.
When Should You Book an Asbestos Survey?
If you’re planning:
- A refurbishment
- A demolition
- A change of occupancy
- A lease renewal
- Or you’ve found suspicious materials
…then you should get an asbestos survey before work begins.
We offer a refurbishment and demolition survey for this very reason.
Your Legal Duty as a Property Owner or Manager
UK law requires all non-domestic property owners to manage asbestos risks.
If your building was built before 2000, you’re expected to:
- Identify and locate asbestos
- Assess its condition
- Manage or remove it where necessary
- Keep records and share them with those who need to know
Failure to do so can lead to fines and enforcement action.
Let us help with your asbestos compliance duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does asbestos look like?
It depends on the material. It might be grey, white, or brown. It’s often mixed into cement, adhesive or insulation. You won’t always notice it unless you test it.
Can I take a sample myself?
No. You risk disturbing the material and releasing dangerous fibres. Always use a qualified asbestos surveyor.
Is asbestos still used in UK buildings?
No. The UK banned all forms of asbestos in 1999. But older buildings may still contain it.
How long does asbestos testing take?
Usually 2–3 working days from sample collection. We aim to provide results quickly and clearly.
Do you offer asbestos surveys in Yorkshire?
Yes. We cover Yorkshire and further afield. Contact us to book a site visit.
Further Reading
