Asbestos safety

As a social landlord, we have a legal duty to manage the risk of asbestos in our homes to ensure the safety of residents, staff, and contractors.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, we are what is known as the ‘dutyholder’. This means that, for any communal areas and non-domestic parts of residential buildings, we will:

• identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in communal spaces (e.g. corridors, risers, lofts)
• keep an up-to-date asbestos register
• assess and manage the risk posed by ACMs
• provide relevant information to anyone who may disturb asbestos during work

Asbestos was mainly used in the construction of homes until 1999. It is not used today, but any building constructed or refurbished before 2000 could contain it.

Asbestos is not dangerous if it is in good condition and left undisturbed. However, if it is damaged or disturbed, it can release fibres which, when inhaled, may cause serious illness over time.

The fibres were typically mixed into other materials, so can often be found in items such as insulation board, guttering, ceiling finishes, floor tiles etc. 

At Watford Community Housing we take asbestos management very seriously – we have a full asbestos management plan in place and conduct regular reviews and updates to ensure that we deal with the asbestos as appropriate.

Before any planned works, refurbishment or maintenance, we may need to carry out an asbestos survey in your home or block.

We do not require permission from residents to inspect communal areas or to manage asbestos in those spaces. However, we will always aim to inform and work collaboratively with residents wherever possible.

Where we need access to your home (e.g. for major works or if asbestos is suspected in a part of the property that may be disturbed), we will:

• provide clear notice and an explanation of the visit
• minimise disruption and take care of your home
• share findings with you where relevant
• ensure that only qualified professionals carry out the survey – all contractors working on our behalf will:
  • be trained in asbestos awareness
  • have access to our asbestos register
  • follow strict control measures and safety protocols

As a resident, you also play a vital role in keeping your home and building safe. Please follow these important responsibilities:

• Do not disturb building materials you suspect may contain asbestos (e.g. old ceiling panels, floor tiles, or textured coatings).
• Do not carry out any DIY, drilling, or alterations to your home without written permission from us — this helps us assess any asbestos risks in advance.
• Allow access for asbestos surveys or related safety inspections when requested — this is part of our legal duty to manage asbestos risks.
• Report damage to walls, ceilings, or other materials that may contain asbestos immediately.
• Do not remove or tamper with signage or labels that identify asbestos-containing materials.

If in doubt, contact us before starting any work in your home and we can make sure your house is safe.