Selling a home is a significant life event, and for owners of older properties, the presence of asbestos can raise a big question: “Can I legally sell my home if it contains asbestos?” The simple answer is yes, you can sell a home with asbestos, but there are some important considerations and responsibilities involved. At Safe:Environment, we specialise in asbestos removal and understand the concerns homeowners face when dealing with this hazardous material.
Here’s everything you need to know about selling a property that contains asbestos.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials throughout the 20th century due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. However, it’s now well-known that asbestos can pose serious health risks when its fibres become airborne and are inhaled, potentially leading to conditions like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
In the UK, asbestos use was banned in 1999, but homes built or renovated before this time may still contain asbestos in materials such as:
Insulation
Roofing and ceiling tiles
Floor tiles
Pipe lagging
Artex and other textured coatings
Is It Legal to Sell a Home with Asbestos?
Yes, it is legal to sell a home with asbestos in the UK. However, you must adhere to certain legal requirements to ensure that the sale is transparent and that potential buyers are informed about the presence of asbestos.
Your Legal Responsibilities as a Seller
Disclosure
As the seller, you have a legal obligation to disclose any known issues with the property, including the presence of asbestos. During the sale process, you will need to complete a property information form (TA6) where you can declare if asbestos is present.
Asbestos Survey
If you suspect that your property contains asbestos but are unsure of its exact location or condition, it’s a good idea to commission an asbestos survey. A professional survey will identify where asbestos is present, its condition, and whether it poses an immediate risk.
Providing Documentation
If you’ve previously had asbestos removed or managed, providing documentation of this work can reassure potential buyers. Similarly, an up-to-date asbestos survey report can help avoid delays in the sales process.
Safe Management
If asbestos is in good condition and undisturbed, it may not pose an immediate risk. However, any advice provided by the asbestos survey should be followed, whether that’s encapsulating, managing, or removing the asbestos.
How Asbestos Affects Property Value
The presence of asbestos can affect how buyers perceive your property. While some buyers may not be deterred, others may see asbestos as a safety concern or an additional expense. Factors that can influence the impact on property value include:
The location and condition of the asbestos
Whether removal or encapsulation is required
The buyer’s willingness to take on a property requiring work
Providing clear information and, if necessary, addressing the asbestos issue beforehand can make your property more attractive to buyers.
Should You Remove Asbestos Before Selling?
Removing asbestos before selling isn’t a legal requirement, but it can make the sale process smoother. Having the asbestos professionally removed ensures the property is safe and eliminates a potential obstacle for buyers.
At Safe:Environment, we specialise in the safe removal and disposal of asbestos, providing peace of mind for both sellers and buyers. Our expert team is fully licensed and adheres to strict safety standards to ensure all work is carried out efficiently and responsibly.
Key Takeaways
Yes, you can legally sell a home with asbestos, but you must disclose its presence to potential buyers.
A professional asbestos survey can identify the location and condition of asbestos, helping you fulfil your legal obligations.
While removing asbestos isn’t mandatory, doing so can make your property more appealing and simplify the sale process.
Safe:Environment can help with professional asbestos surveys, removal, and safe disposal, ensuring your property is compliant and ready for sale.
Get Expert Help from Safe:Environment
If you’re preparing to sell a home and are concerned about asbestos, don’t leave it to chance. At Safe:Environment, we offer expert advice, surveys, and removal services to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Contact us today to learn more about our asbestos services and how we can help you sell your home safely and legally.
