Asbestos *cough*
What does asbestos look like?
Well once you have found over 50 linear metres of the nasty stuff, you become quite an expert. Having done some small renovations in the past, I am not starting to think I might have come across this type of thing before… but really didn’t know what I was dealing with. Chances are, if you house was built or renovated anytime from 1910-1980 there is a small chance there is something in your home, which is asbestos related. Our house, was frankly riddled.
The attic, under the stairs, under the floor of the entire ground floor, pipework leading up to the attic, ceiling panels, rope (!), it was in a lot of places I never imagined you would find it.
What should I do if I find asbestos or think I may have it?
The first thing to do, is don’t touch it. A survey from a reputable company is going to cost around £400-500 for a reasonably sized property. What I would say is make sure they are accredited and they provide you at the end with a very simple to follow plan of the house, lined up to the actual tests they undertook.
Within 24 hours they are likely to have the main results back, within 72 hours you will have the report. I used NSUK – I wouldn’t recommend them at all!
What happens next?
Don’t panic. If it comes back positive, the key is going to be how much there is, how difficult it is going to be to remove and what type it is. I worked with no less than 5 companies to gain quotes. No-one wants to tell you how much it will cost to remove, it is all ‘how long is a piece of string’ so be prepared to put the ground work in. I provided the report, then borrowed the first scope of works from a quote, to provide to 4 other contractors. Again make sure they are fully accredited.
How much does asbestos removal cost?
For me, the cost was £23,000 + VAT. The first quote was almost £40,000 which is why it is worth shopping around. Once you have a clear scope of works, it is easier to compare like for like.
Questions to ask:
What happens if you find a little more once you are removing the asbestos identified?
How long will it take, how many people will you have onsite?
What power, water and other facilities do you require (toilet and certain facilities are required as a minimum)
Will I be able to live in the property and which areas if any will be out of bounds?
How does payment work? All, Half, Deposit?
What is your accreditation and which professional bodies do you belong to?
