Notification
Is this work licensable, notifiable, or neither?
CAR 2012 creates three categories of asbestos work: licensed, notifiable non-licensed (NNLW) and non-licensed. Placing your task in the wrong category is a criminal offence — often committed unknowingly.
Overview
Why this exists.
The categorisation depends on material type, condition and expected fibre release. The same material can fall in different categories depending on the state you find it in.
The tree below is the working logic our consultants apply on-site. It should be attached to every method statement to justify the chosen category.
The explainer
Licensed / NNLW / non-licensed
How to read this
- Answer each question honestly — the intent of CAR 2012 is that borderline calls default to the more onerous category.
- Outcomes link to the relevant guidance page.
Key takeaways
Licensed = HSE licence-holder only
Insulation, lagging, sprayed coatings and most AIB work is always licensed.
NNLW = notified + trained
Non-licensed but higher-risk. Notify HSE, keep medical records, use trained operatives.
Non-licensed = trained + documented
Cement products in good condition, short-duration tasks, low fibre release.
FAQs
Common follow-up questions.
Who notifies HSE for NNLW?
The employer carrying out the work — usually the contractor. The duty holder should verify notification was made before works start.
Can a duty holder do NNLW themselves?
In theory yes, with training, RPE, medicals and record-keeping. In practice almost always contracted out.
Explore further
Related guidance
Standard
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012)
Plain-English guide to CAR 2012 — Regulation 4 duty to manage, Regulation 5 identification, licensed vs non-licensed work, training and HSE enforcement.
ReadGuide
Licensed vs Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal
Which asbestos removal regime applies — licensed or non-licensed — depends on the material, not the size of the job. A UK dutyholder comparison.
ReadGuide
Notifiable Non-Licensed Work vs Licensed Removal
The middle removal regime — Notifiable Non-Licensed Work (NNLW) — sits between non-licensed and licensed. A UK comparison of NNLW vs full licensed removal.
ReadGuide
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, Explained
The single UK statutory instrument that governs asbestos in buildings and at work — walked through regulation by regulation, in language dutyholders can actually use.
ReadGuide
Understanding The Control Of Asbestos Regulations 2012
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, explained clause by clause for UK dutyholders, landlords, contractors and homeowners.
ReadGuide
Asbestos Garage Roof Guide
Corrugated cement garage roofs are the single most common asbestos product on UK domestic property. Identification, removal and disposal.
Read