Asbestos FAQs

Answers and Expert Advice

Answers to common questions about our asbestos survey, testing, removal, and disposal services across Yorkshire. Can't find yours? Get in touch.

General Questions

What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in building materials before the year 2000. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they can release microscopic fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can cause serious health conditions such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

How do I know if my property contains asbestos?

Many buildings constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos materials. However, asbestos cannot usually be identified by sight alone. The safest way to confirm whether a material contains asbestos is through professional asbestos sampling and laboratory testing.

Is asbestos always dangerous?

Asbestos is not usually dangerous if it is in good condition and left undisturbed. Problems arise when asbestos materials are damaged, drilled, cut, or removed incorrectly, which can release harmful fibres into the air.

Do I need to remove asbestos immediately?

Not always. In some cases asbestos can be managed or encapsulated safely if it is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed. A professional asbestos survey can determine whether removal or management is the best option.

Are asbestos services required by law?

In many situations, particularly for commercial properties, landlords and businesses have legal responsibilities under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 to identify and manage asbestos.

Booking and Pricing

How much does asbestos removal cost in Yorkshire?

The cost of asbestos removal depends on several factors, including the type of asbestos material, the size of the area, and ease of access. Smaller jobs such as asbestos garage roof removal may cost significantly less than larger projects. Contact us for a quote based on your specific situation.

How quickly can you carry out asbestos work?

In many cases we can arrange site visits within a few days, depending on location and workload. Emergency situations can often be prioritised.

Do you provide quotes before starting work?

Yes. We provide clear and transparent quotes before any work begins so you know exactly what to expect.

Do you cover all of Yorkshire?

Yes. Bawcro Asbestos provides services across Yorkshire, including West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and East Yorkshire.

Do I need to leave the property during asbestos work?

In many cases you can remain in the property if the work area is isolated. However, for larger projects we may recommend temporarily avoiding the work area while removal takes place.

Asbestos Removal

What types of asbestos can you remove?

We specialise in the removal of non-licensed asbestos materials, including asbestos cement sheets, garage roofs, soffits, gutters, flue pipes, floor tiles, and other common building materials.

Can you remove asbestos garage roofs?

Yes. Asbestos garage roof removal is one of the most common services we provide across Yorkshire. Our team safely removes the asbestos cement sheets and ensures they are disposed of correctly.

Is asbestos removal safe?

When carried out by trained professionals using correct procedures and protective equipment, asbestos removal can be performed safely and in line with regulations.

How long does asbestos removal take?

The time required depends on the size and complexity of the job. Smaller projects such as garage roof removal may be completed in a single day.

What happens to asbestos after it is removed?

All asbestos materials are securely packaged, labelled, transported, and disposed of at licensed hazardous waste facilities.

Asbestos Testing

How do you test for asbestos?

Testing involves taking a small sample of a suspected material and sending it to a UKAS accredited laboratory for analysis.

How long do asbestos test results take?

Most asbestos test results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on the laboratory service used.

What materials commonly contain asbestos?

Common asbestos-containing materials include cement sheets, floor tiles, textured coatings, soffits, flue pipes, ceiling tiles, and wall panels.

Can I take an asbestos sample myself?

It is not recommended. Disturbing asbestos materials without proper training can release fibres. Sampling should always be carried out by trained professionals.

What happens if asbestos is confirmed?

If asbestos is identified, we can advise whether the material should be managed, encapsulated, or safely removed.

Asbestos Waste Collection

Can you collect asbestos waste from my property?

Yes. We provide asbestos waste collection services across Yorkshire, collecting asbestos materials from homes, businesses, and construction sites.

Do I need a licensed company to dispose of asbestos?

Yes. Asbestos waste must be transported by a registered Environment Agency Licensed Waste Carrier and disposed of at authorised facilities.

Can asbestos be put in a normal skip?

No. Asbestos cannot be disposed of with general construction waste and must be handled and disposed of through specialist hazardous waste procedures.

Do you collect asbestos from builders and contractors?

Yes. Many builders and contractors use our services to collect and dispose of asbestos waste safely and legally.

How is asbestos waste packaged?

Asbestos waste must be double wrapped in specialist asbestos waste bags or sheeting and clearly labelled before transport.

Asbestos Surveys

When do I need an asbestos survey?

You may need an asbestos survey if you are renovating, demolishing, managing a commercial building, or purchasing an older property.

What is the difference between a management survey and a refurbishment survey?

A management survey identifies asbestos materials that could be disturbed during normal building use, while a refurbishment and demolition survey is required before major building work takes place.

How long does an asbestos survey take?

The time required depends on the size of the property, but most surveys are completed within a few hours to a full day.

Will the survey damage my property?

Most surveys are non-intrusive, although small samples may be taken to confirm whether materials contain asbestos.

What do I receive after the survey?

You will receive a detailed asbestos survey report including locations of asbestos materials, risk assessments, photographs, and recommendations.