Knowledge Centre

Asbestos by Building Age

Likely asbestos containing materials by UK construction period — a quick triage for dutyholders and homeowners.

Asbestos in Pre-1945 Properties

Pre-1945 UK buildings commonly contain pipe lagging on early central-heating systems and limited decorative use of asbestos.

Post-war UK reconstruction made heavy use of asbestos cement and pipe lagging.

The peak of UK asbestos use — AIB, sprayed coatings and Artex all became widespread.

Use of amosite and crocidolite ceased in 1985 but cement and Artex continued.

Chrysotile cement and Artex continued in UK construction until the 1999 ban.

Post-2000 UK buildings are very unlikely to contain asbestos in original fabric, but reused or imported materials can introduce it.