Asbestos, once hailed as a miracle material for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, is now recognised as a dangerous health hazard lurking in millions of homes across the UK. This naturally occurring mineral, widely used in construction materials until its ban in 1999, poses a significant risk of developing serious asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. We will also highlight how you can start a housing disrepair claim.
Understanding the Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos fibers, when inhaled or ingested, can lodge themselves in the lungs and other organs, causing inflammation and scarring over time. This can lead to the development of debilitating and often fatal conditions. The latency period between exposure and diagnosis can be decades, making it a silent killer.
Asbestos in UK Homes: A Widespread Problem
It is estimated that over 50% of residential properties in the UK contain asbestos, primarily those built or renovated before 2000. This means that millions of homeowners and tenants are unknowingly living with this hidden danger. Asbestos can be found in various parts of a house, including:
- Roofing materials: Asbestos cement sheets were commonly used for roofs, soffits, and guttering.
- Insulation: Asbestos was used in lagging around pipes and boilers, as well as in sprayed coatings on walls and ceilings.
- Flooring: Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives often contained asbestos.
- Textured coatings (Artex): Decorative textured coatings popular in the 1970s and 1980s often contained asbestos.
Identifying Asbestos in Your Home
Asbestos can be difficult to identify, as it is often mixed with other materials or hidden behind newer finishes. If you suspect that your home may contain asbestos, it is crucial to have it professionally tested. Do not attempt to remove or disturb any materials suspected of containing asbestos yourself, as this can release harmful fibers into the air.
Safe Removal and Management of Asbestos
If asbestos is found in your home, it is important to have it removed or managed by a licensed asbestos professional. The specific course of action will depend on the type and condition of the asbestos-containing material (ACM). In some cases, removal may be necessary, while in others, it may be sufficient to seal or encapsulate the ACM to prevent fiber release.
Living with Asbestos: Precautions and Tips
If you are living in a home with asbestos that is in good condition and not being disturbed, the risk of exposure is low. However, it is essential to take precautions to minimise the risk of fiber release:
- Regular inspections: Have the ACM regularly inspected by a licensed professional to monitor its condition.
- Avoid DIY work: Do not drill, sand, or cut into any materials suspected of containing asbestos.
- Inform tradespeople: If you are having work done in your home, inform tradespeople of the presence of asbestos.
- Clean carefully: Use a damp cloth to clean surfaces suspected of containing asbestos. Avoid vacuuming, as this can release fibers into the air.
Making a Housing Disrepair Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we recognise the profound impact that living in a state of disrepair can have on your physical and mental well-being. Whether you’ve been affected by persistent dampness and mould, endured the discomfort of a faulty heating system, or suffered due to structural deficiencies in your home, we believe you shouldn’t have to suffer in silence.
We recognise that every housing disrepair case is unique, and we’re here to offer you a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation. During this consultation, we’ll listen attentively to your experience, carefully review any evidence you have, and assess the potential strength of your claim. Our team will then connect you with a solicitor from our panel who specialises in housing disrepair claims, ensuring that you receive the expert legal representation needed to navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims agents who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
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