Asbestos, banned in the UK more than two decades ago, is still present in thousands of homes and remains a significant health risk. Every year, around 5,000 people die from diseases linked to asbestos, like mesothelioma and lung cancer. This makes asbestos a major health risk, not only at work but also at home.

We, at Waddington Village, provide essential information on UK problems, focusing on lifestyle, safety, and practical advice. With many families starting DIY projects, now is a good time to consider the asbestos risks associated with renovating older homes.

Let’s explore what you need to know to keep your family safe from this hidden danger.

Why Asbestos Still Matters Today

Asbestos was commonly used in homes until 1999. It was found in insulation, roofing materials, floor tiles, and ceiling coatings. If your home was built before then, it likely still has some asbestos.

The critical thing to know is that asbestos is generally safe if it isn’t disturbed. However, when you renovate, like sanding ceilings, drilling walls, or even replacing flooring, you can release asbestos fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can lead to serious health issues, such as lung cancer or mesothelioma, many years later.

Many families are upgrading their kitchens, adding loft conversions, or building garden offices. The rise in home upgrades since the pandemic means more people are working with older materials, without realising the risks. This makes understanding asbestos just as important today as it was when the ban was introduced.

Health Risks and Awareness Every Family Should Know

Asbestos is dangerous, but its health risks often remain hidden for years, making it easy to overlook during renovations.

The health risks include the following:

• Mesothelioma: A rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
• Lung Cancer: Caused by asbestos exposure.
• Asbestosis: A long-term condition that severely scars the lungs.

Symptoms of these diseases often don’t appear until they are in their later stages. The good news is that by understanding the risks and taking the appropriate steps, you can protect your family before problems arise.

If you suspect asbestos in your home, always contact a professional for an inspection and avoid handling it yourself. The HSE offers clear guidance on asbestos safety.

Sarah Albon, HSE’s Chief Executive stated that: “Asbestos exposure in Great Britain is still the single greatest cause of work-related deaths. We are committed to protecting people in the workplace and reducing future work-related ill health.”

What Homeowners Should Do Before Starting Renovations

If your home was built before 2000, it’s a good idea to assume there might be asbestos; until a professional confirms otherwise. Here’s what you should do to stay safe:

• Take a Step Back: Don’t dive into sanding, drilling, or tearing things up just yet. First, figure out if the material you’re working with might contain asbestos.
• Get a Pro to Take a Look: Call in a certified professional to do an asbestos survey. They’ll check things over and tell you if any asbestos is lurking around.
• Know the Rules: Asbestos isn’t something you can handle on your own. There are strict laws about who can remove it and how it should be disposed of. Always leave it to the experts.
• Put Health First: It’s safer to let the pros handle the removal to keep your family and home protected from dangerous fibres.

In fact, in 2025, 78% of the 128,761 inspected buildings in the UK contain asbestos, and about 1.5 million properties are at risk of disturbing it during renovations. So, getting a professional survey is not just a good idea; it’s essential for keeping everyone safe.

If you’re planning any home upgrades, take a moment to ensure you’re not accidentally disturbing something hazardous.

Homeowners often want to improve the comfort and functionality of their spaces. For practical tips on enhancing your home, look for simple and valuable ideas that help you make the most of your space.

If you’re unsure whether your home has asbestos, it’s essential to get a professional inspection. The risk is too high to take chances. Between 2015 and 2019, 158 people in Derbyshire died from asbestos-related cancers.

You can’t easily spot asbestos, and it requires professionals to handle it safely. To keep your home safe, always hire professionals to inspect, remove, and dispose of asbestos properly.

Although asbestos is no longer used in UK construction, it can still be found in homes built before 2000; from ceiling coatings to insulation boards. For peace of mind, homeowners can turn to accredited specialists for Advance Asbestos Removal, who provide safe inspections and certified removal services nationwide.

For a visual illustration, explore this video and understand how you can work safely with asbestos.

Conclusion

Asbestos is still a serious risk in many homes, especially older ones. If your house was built before 2000, don’t assume it’s safe from asbestos. Take precautions before starting any renovations or upgrades.

It’s essential to have a professional inspect your home and safely remove any asbestos to protect your family. Remember, asbestos is not just a thing of the past; it’s a real concern today.

The first step to keeping you and your loved ones safe is to be aware of the risks, which leads to taking action.

Stay informed, stay safe, and avoid risks associated with asbestos.