Asbestos

We receive a number of enquires each month regarding asbestos in properties. Here is a general overview of what asbestos is and what we are doing about it.

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a strong fibrous rock, which can resist heat and chemicals. It was commonly used in buildings between the 1950s and 1980s. Almost all buildings constructed or altered during this period are likely to have asbestos in situ. The difficulty is that products containing asbestos can look the same as those that do not, such as ‘supalux’. Often the difference between the two can only be found under a microscope by a specialist laboratory.

Am I at risk?

You will not be at risk if products that contain asbestos are undisturbed and undamaged. If they do become damaged or deteriorate, then you and others may be at risk as asbestos fibres may be released in to the air. Current scientific advice tells us that if materials are in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, then the risk presented is minimal.

DIY activities such as sanding or drilling may disturb and possibly damage products containing asbestos. So please do not place yourself at risk and seek advice before you carry out such work. We can arrange to have a sample taken and tested to establish if it contains asbestos. There will be a charge for this service for both leaseholders and freeholders.

It should be emphasised that asbestos does not present a hazard to health providing it is in good condition. However, where this is not the case, we will deal with it in a safe and controlled manner. We would like to assure residents that Blenheim Gardens RMO follows all the rules and regulations concerning asbestos very strictly, and that the health and safety of people is our most important consideration.

Where can asbestos be found?

Exterior of buildings including:

Roof sheets and tiles
Exterior cladding
Guttering and drain pipes
Fascia boards
Boiler flue pipes
Some interior working of boilers
Storage radiators

Interior surfaces:

Textured walls and ceilings
Duct panels
Infill panels
Panels behind warm air units
Fire place panels
Water tanks
Garage and shed roofs
Pipe lagging

The above list is not exclusive, but all of these items potentially contain asbestos and should be treated as such unless you know otherwise.

Please see the following booklet – Asbestos and You – A quick guide for trades for additional locations and advise.

What about leaseholders?

Under the terms of your lease, you are responsible for the fixtures and fittings in your property. Any removal of such a hazard is a specialist occupation. For a list of recommended asbestos removal contractors, please contact the Lambeth Call Centre on 020 7926 1000. For more information on asbestos, visit www.hse.gov.uk

From April 2013, Blenheim Gardens RMO returned the management of asbestos function in both residential and communal properties to the council. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the council’s management of asbestos on this estate please contact the Lambeth Call Centre on 020 7926 1000.

Asbestos reports

Below, you can find all of the asbestos reports completed to date.