Asbestos used to be a go-to material in construction because of its strength and fire resistance. But now, it’s better known for its serious health risks. Even though asbestos was banned in UK construction in 1999, many older buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). As a landlord, it’s important to understand your legal obligations when it comes to asbestos — not just to follow the law, but to keep your tenants safe.
Why Asbestos Is Dangerous
Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause life-threatening illnesses like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These diseases often take decades to develop, so it’s crucial to identify and deal with asbestos early on to prevent exposure.
The Laws You Need to Know
Landlords in the UK have to follow strict rules when it comes to asbestos. Here are the main ones:
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012): If your property was built before 2000, you’re required to identify, assess, and manage any asbestos risks.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: This law means landlords must ensure their properties don’t pose health risks to tenants, contractors, or anyone else who might use the property.
Defective Premises Act 1972: This act holds landlords responsible for keeping properties safe to live in, which includes managing any asbestos hazards.
What are the legal obligations of landlords
1. Check for Asbestos
You need to find out if your property has asbestos. This usually means hiring a professional to carry out an asbestos survey. They’ll identify any ACMs and assess the risk they pose.
2. Have a Management Plan
If asbestos is present, you’ll need an asbestos management plan. This plan explains how you’ll monitor and manage the material to prevent fibres from being released. Make sure you review and update this plan regularly.
3. Tell Tenants and Workers
If asbestos is found, you must let tenants and anyone working on the property know where it is. Clear communication helps ensure no one accidentally disturbs the material.
4. Use Qualified Contractors
If work needs to be done that could disturb asbestos, make sure you hire licensed and trained professionals. Removing or repairing asbestos must always follow the CAR 2012 rules.
5. Keep Detailed Records
Keep all documents related to asbestos surveys, management plans, and any work done on the property. These records should be easy to access in case they’re needed by authorities or tenants.
The Consequences of Ignoring Asbestos Laws
Failing to adhere to asbestos regulations can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines, potential jail sentences, and irreparable damage to your business’s reputation. However, the most critical aspect is the risk it poses to human lives. Asbestos exposure can cause serious health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, affecting not only your employees but also customers, tenants, and anyone else exposed to the material in a building.
Neglecting asbestos risks isn’t just a regulatory violation; it’s a moral failing that can have devastating, long-term effects. By staying compliant with asbestos safety laws, you’re not just safeguarding your business from legal and financial repercussions — you’re demonstrating responsibility, professionalism, and a commitment to protecting the health and well-being of everyone involved. Compliance is about more than avoiding penalties; it’s about being proactive, ethical, and dedicated to safety.
How Safe:Environment Can Help
Dealing with asbestos can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Safe:Environment, we provide everything from asbestos surveys and management plans to safe removal services. We’ll help ensure your property is fully compliant with all regulations, so you can have peace of mind knowing you’ve taken the right steps to protect your tenants.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you manage asbestos safely and responsibly.
Asbestos management isn’t just a legal box to tick — it’s about protecting lives. By staying proactive and getting expert help when you need it, you can make sure your property stays safe and compliant.
