What are CCHA doing about asbestos?
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- On homes built prior to 2000, we have completed surveys that record the location and condition of any asbestos in your home. Additionally, we regularly re-inspect homes. We make sure that asbestos containing materials (as per the examples above) remain in good condition. If we identify any damage, we will instruct a contractor to repair or remove them immediately.
- We carry out refurbishment surveys prior to any major works. We adhere to safety protocols to avoid disturbing asbestos and, where necessary, we remove it prior to completing any works.
- Where asbestos is identified, changed, or removed, we update an internal register which contains all surveys. This central database gives up-to-date information of identified properties with asbestos and allows our repairs team and contractors to carry our repairs safely within your home.
- We are proactively removing asbestos from properties during the periods that they are empty, prior to being re-let to new tenants.
What can you do as a tenant?
As stated, in your day-to-day life, asbestos will not be a problem and you do not have to do anything. However, if you are planning any home improvements, we strongly advise:
- Major Works (e.g. large scale home improvements)
You must seek approval prior to starting any major works within your home to ensure your safety. Whilst we make every effort to identify asbestos in your home, there is a small chance that some might be hidden or covered which remain unidentified.
- Minor Works (e.g. small DIY projects, decorating, etc.)
Remain cautious when carrying out DIY or decorating works. We are happy to speak to you to give advice on any DIY projects you are considering. For instance, some ceiling coatings (Artex) contain small quantities of asbestos. Please do not attempt to remove them.
It is essential that you report any deterioration and/or damage of asbestos containing materials to us as soon as possible. We can then arrange for one of our surveyors to visit your property and assess as to whether there is any risk of asbestos exposure. If necessary, we can instruct any repairs that may be required.
Please remember that it is important to allow access for our contractors to complete periodic asbestos inspections. We make these checks to keep you safe, and ensure that asbestos is effectively managed.
Never attempt to remove asbestos yourself. It is dangerous. Only a professionally trained person is qualified to remove asbestos.
What if I find disturbed asbestos in my home?
If you believe that there has been damage or disturbance to asbestos containing materials, please don’t panic. Keep everyone away from the area and do not attempt to clean it up. Moving, brushing or vacuuming will spread the fibres into the air. Call us on 029 2046 8490 (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.) In an emergency, please call our out of hours number on 0300 123 1091.
If you have any other questions or queries, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
