Asbestos in the Home: Selling a Property with Asbestos

Selling a property can be a daunting task, with numerous considerations and potential hurdles along the way. One such hurdle that homeowners may encounter is the presence of asbestos in their property. 

Asbestos, once a commonly used building material due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties, is now known to pose serious health risks when its fibres are released into the air and inhaled. So, can you sell a property with asbestos, and if so, what are the implications?

As experts in the identification, removal and disposal of asbestos, Cordtape Environmental have all the answers you need:

Can you sell a property with asbestos?

Yes, you can sell a property with asbestos, however there are certain responsibilities and precautions that must be taken by the seller to ensure this is done safely, and that the buyer is fully aware of the location, risks and extent of its presence.

Failure to disclose the presence of asbestos can lead to legal action if you are already aware of it.

If your property survey shows the presence of asbestos, you are advised to have a report prepared by an asbestos contractor.

Where is asbestos found in domestic properties?

Use of asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999 due to the health risks it poses to those who come into contact with asbestos fibres, but it was used frequently in the build of domestic properties from the 1970s to 1990s which means it exists in many homes to this day.

Asbestos can be found in materials such as:

• Roofing felt
• Attic and wall insulation 
• Flooring including vinyl tiles, linoleum, and some types of carpet underlay
• Textured coatings 
• Pipes and boilers
• Guttering 
• Cement products

How might asbestos impact selling your property? 

The presence of asbestos can impact the sale of your property in a few key ways:

Financial Implications:

One of the most significant impacts of asbestos on selling a property is its potential financial implications. Asbestos removal and management can be costly, and buyers may factor these expenses into their purchasing decisions.

Properties known to contain asbestos may therefore sell at a lower price to account for the anticipated costs associated with asbestos abatement.

Legal Requirements:

Sellers are legally obligated to disclose the presence of asbestos to potential buyers. Failure to disclose this information can result in legal repercussions and may even jeopardise the sale of the property.

Delays In Sale:

Asbestos surveys and removal can add time to the selling process, potentially delaying the sale of your property. The presence of asbestos can make a property unattractive to buyers due to the health risks it poses, as well as the hassle and cost of removal once the property has been purchased.

Can asbestos prevent a property from selling?

While the presence of asbestos may deter some buyers, particularly those who are concerned about the associated health risks or the cost of removal, it does not necessarily prevent a property from selling. However, it may limit the pool of potential buyers and prolong the selling process.

Potential buyers may be deterred from purchasing a property with known asbestos issues due to concerns about their health and safety. Additionally, properties with asbestos may be perceived as outdated or in need of significant renovation, further limiting their appeal to prospective buyers.

Should I conduct an asbestos survey before selling my property?

It is highly recommended to conduct an asbestos survey before selling your property, especially if it was built before the 1990s when asbestos use was more common. An asbestos survey will identify any asbestos containing materials (ACMs) present in the property and assess their condition and risk.

Identifying the presence of asbestos prior to putting your property on the market can increase your options, and prevent delays in the buying process.

If it comes up during a property survey, then your buyer will be able to negotiate a lower selling price which may come as a shock and decrease the deposit you are able to put down on the house you are interested in.

Ensure your property is safe by contacting accredited Asbestos Survey & Sampling professionals.

Does asbestos impact property price?

You may need to negotiate a reduction in the price of your property if asbestos is found upon survey. 

If you are in a rush to sell your property, then you may not have the time to employ a professional asbestos removal company, but for peace of mind in the build up to selling, it can be beneficial to consider removal as this will ensure you receive a worthy price for your property. 

How to request an asbestos survey on a property for sale 

When selling your property, you can arrange for an asbestos survey through certified asbestos professionals or surveying companies. They will conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify any ACMs and provide a detailed report of their findings.

How to remove asbestos from my home before I sell it

If asbestos is found in your property, it is essential to take appropriate steps to manage or remove it safely. The removal process must comply with local regulations and guidelines to ensure the safety of both occupants and workers.

Remember, always seek professional assistance from licensed asbestos experts to ensure the proper management and safe removal of asbestos-containing materials in  your home. 

Contact Cordtape Environmental for professional Asbestos Survey and Removal services as well as expert Asbestos Removal and Asbestos Waste Management.