Frequently asked questions about asbestos
This information sets out what happens when asbestos is found in your property.
Survey work carried out by Helena Partnerships often uncovers asbestos-containing products in our properties – and there is usually no need to worry. This information will tell you what we do having found asbestos in your home. It explains how we decide whether to leave, remove, or enclose the product – and how you will be affected. By now we should have written to you explaining what type of asbestos we have found and where it is in your home. Read on to find out what happens next.
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a very strong naturally occurring fibre found in rocks. Its use became popular in buildings in the 1960s and 1970s where it was used as insulation material or for fire protection. The asbestos fibres are hidden behind protective materials and so cannot be breathed in. It is only if these materials become damaged or worn that there is a chance of this happening. These fibres are harmful if breathed in – and it was this which led the government to ban the material in 1999. However, if the asbestos is contained in products which prevent the release of fibres it is safe and legal to leave it in place.
How does Helena decide what to do when it finds asbestos?
First of all we undertake a full risk assessment of the asbestos in your property. The results of this will decide what action we take.
- If we decide the asbestos presents a high risk we will remove it IMMEDIATELY.
- If we decide the asbestos presents only a low risk we will remove it as part of our planned maintenance programmes.
Some asbestos can be sealed or covered in order to remove any risk. Where this is appropriate we will take this course of action. Some materials containing asbestos may be in a good condition and therefore present no risk to you. Where this is the case we will leave the material in place and keep an eye on it.
What if I want to make some improvements to my home?
To carry out any home improvement or maintenance work yourself you must first get permission from Helena. It’s important not to tamper with any products or materials in your home which may contain asbestos. If in doubt – leave it alone and call us for advice.
How will you remove or cover the asbestos?
We will instruct our specialist removal consultants to carry out the work. They will explain to you exactly what they plan to do and how you will be affected. Please help us by allowing contractors access to your property.
Remember – if we decide to leave the asbestos in place we need to revisit your home to check on it.
They will do their best to carry out work with the minimum disruption and will endeavour not to damage any of your décor or fixtures and fittings. Should this happen though, we will give you a decorating payment or voucher to pay towards the cost.
What is Helena’s Asbestos Register?
Helena’s Asbestos Register records all the asbestos which has been found in our properties and what action we have taken. It is regularly updated and is shared with our contractors, staff and customers.
What happens if I have bought my house under ‘right-to’buy’?
As the homeowner you are responsible for any asbestos containing materials in your home – and you must therefore make your own arrangements for its management or removal. In this instance it is still advisable to take note of the advice and guidance in this leaflet.
Asbestos dos and don’ts
- DO keep away from any damaged products which may contain asbestos
- DO inform us straight away if you have concerns about any products in your home
- DON’T carry out DIY works including drilling, sanding or stripping of any products known to contain asbestos
- DON’T dust, sweep or vacuum debris that may contain asbestos
- DON’T take risks
Interesting fact
The word asbestos comes from the Ancient Greeks and means literally ‘not extinguishable’. They were the first to realise the flame resistant properties of the strong naturally occurring fibres found in rocks. In Ancient Rome asbestos was used to make napkins and tablecloths in restaurants. Because they were flame retardant they could be thrown in the fire at the end of the meal then removed minus food and stains!
Warning
Helena customers should not carry out any improvements or alterations to their properties without the permission of Helena Partnerships, in line with their tenancy agreements. If you, or anyone you have permitted, carry out works to a material containing asbestos in your property, without written approval from Helena Partnerships, you will be liable for the costs of dealing with any asbestos incident and the cost of returning the property to its original state.
Further Information