WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND ASBESTOS DURING DIY IN YOUR HOME 

DIY is a huge part of life for many Mansfield homeowners — whether you’re pulling up old flooring, removing ceiling textures, knocking through walls, or giving your home a fresh new look.

But if your property was built before 2000, there’s a chance you could encounter asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) while you work — and that can lead to serious risks if not handled properly.

This guide explains what to do if you discover suspected asbestos during DIY, how to spot common signs, and how to get it tested quickly and safely.

FIRST THINGS FIRST : STOP WORK IMMEDIATELY 

If you disturb a material and suddenly suspect it might contain asbestos (especially if it crumbles, flakes, or creates dust):

• Stop what you're doing straight away
• Avoid further touching or disturbing the area
• Leave the space and close doors to contain any dust
• Do not vacuum, sweep, or dispose of the debris yourself
• Contact a professional to assess the risk

👉 Learn more about Asbestos Sample Testing and Domestic Surveys

WHY THIS HAPPENS SO OFTEN IN MANSFIELD HOMES

Many homes across Mansfield — especially in areas like Ladybrook, Oak Tree Lane, and Clipstone — were built between the 1950s and 1980s. During this period, asbestos was widely used in building materials due to its insulation and fire-resistant properties.

This means materials like floor tiles, Artex ceilings, cement garage roofs, and pipe lagging can still be present in homes that otherwise appear modern.

👉 Our Asbestos Guidance for Homeowners breaks down where asbestos is commonly found.

WHAT DIY TASKS COMMONLY DISTURB ASBESTOS? 

You may come across asbestos in these situations:

• Removing old floor tiles or carpet adhesives
• Scraping textured ceilings (like Artex)
• Drilling into walls that contain asbestos insulating board (AIB)
• Pulling out boxing around pipes or boilers
• Refurbishing kitchens or bathrooms with hidden asbestos panels
• Demolishing outbuildings like sheds or garages with cement roofs
• Sanding or stripping walls that were skimmed over asbestos coatings

 WHAT TO DO NEXT : SAFE TESTING AND ADVICE

If you’ve disturbed a material and suspect asbestos, don’t panic — but do get it checked.

➤ 1. Book Asbestos Sample Testing

A trained professional will visit your property, safely collect a small sample of the material, and send it to a UKAS-accredited lab.

📈 Results are typically returned within 24–48 hours, and you’ll receive a written report explaining exactly what was found.

➤ 2. Get a Domestic Asbestos Survey (if needed)

If you’re planning extensive works or multiple materials are involved, a survey may be more appropriate. It offers a room-by-room assessment, so you don’t risk disturbing hidden ACMs elsewhere.

 WHAT IF ASBESTOS IS CONFIRMED? 

If asbestos is present, don’t worry — in many cases, it can remain safely in place if undisturbed. However, if the material is damaged, or in the way of your renovation, you may need professional removal.

You’ll be advised whether:

The area can be sealed or left alone

It needs licensed removal

Work can continue safely with the right precautions

We’ll point you to trusted removal contractors if needed.

 SAFE DIY MOVING FORWARD 

If you’re doing any of the following in a pre-2000 property, it’s always wise to check first:

• Renovating bathrooms or kitchens
• Rewiring or plumbing
• Removing ceilings, tiles, or walls
• Converting garages or lofts
• Stripping back to brick

Testing or surveying in advance can save you time, money, and stress — not to mention keeping you and your household safe.

👉 View our full Homeowner Services

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

• Asbestos may still be present in many Mansfield homes built before 2000
• DIY tasks like sanding, drilling, or removing old materials can release fibres
• Stop work immediately if you’re unsure and get the area tested
• Sample testing is fast, affordable, and provides clear answers
• Not all asbestos needs to be removed — expert advice is key

📞 Local Support When You Need It

If you're in Mansfield and find a suspicious material during DIY, we’re here to help.

We provide:

Prompt testing and survey bookings

Clear, jargon-free advice

Fast turnaround and local support

📍 Based in Mansfield | Serving Forest Town, Berry Hill, Rainworth, Warsop & beyond