Materials containing asbestos were used in building works until 1999. These materials are completely safe as long as they are not damaged or disturbed.
To ensure the safety of our residents, technicians and contractors, Havebury is required by law to carry out surveys in all of its properties. These surveys provide information on the location and condition of asbestos and are carried out by contractor, Ensafe or our in house surveyor.
The majority of our properties have had surveys completed and the tenant is sent a copy of the results.
Changes to asbestos management
Although 99% of the housing stock has now had an asbestos survey completed, we will need to return to most of our properties in the future to either carry out Re-Inspection Surveys or further Refurbishment Surveys prior to any refurbishment work in any of our properties.
What if there is no survey for my property?
If a survey hasn’t been carried out on your home, Havebury may, for safety reasons, be unable to carry out maintenance or scheduled work such as fitting a new kitchen or bathroom. For example; your property was built after 1 January 2000, a survey is not required as the use of asbestos was prohibited in 1999. Unsure whether your property has been surveyed? or are concerned about asbestos in your home, please contact our Asbestos Co-ordinator on 0300 3300 900.
Should I be concerned?
Materials containing asbestos in your home are safe as long as they remain undamaged and undisturbed. However, where a survey has identified materials that may contain asbestos, they should not be broken, sanded, cut or drilled.
If found, is it safe to continue living in my property?
If the survey identifies any asbestos in a poor condition, Havebury will arrange for it to be sealed or removed. All materials which are deemed to be safe will be monitored by re-inspections over a period of five years. You can also contact the Health and Safety Executives information line on 0845 345 0055 or visit Health & Safety Executive.
