Selling a house can be a long and complex process, especially if you’re worried about issues at your property, like the presence of asbestos. It’s commonly found in older homes built before 2000 and could pose a serious health risk if it’s disturbed. Luckily, with the right knowledge and support, selling a property with asbestos can be easily managed.
Here are some of our top tips for how to sell a home with asbestos.
Why is asbestos dangerous and where is it found in the home?
Asbestos is dangerous due to its microscopic fibres. If they become airborne when a material is damaged or has deteriorated, the fibres could be inhaled, causing serious health problems like lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Typical spots where asbestos might be hiding include insulation materials, floors (e.g., vinyl tiles), textured ceilings, roofing (like felt and overlapping tiles), cement sheets, plaster walls and pipe lagging.
Can you sell a house with asbestos in it?
Yes, you can sell a house with asbestos in it, but you must declare its presence to buyers if you know about it and take suitable measures to manage the risks. Buyers have the right to know about any known hazards (including asbestos) before they make a decision about purchasing a property.
Should you get an asbestos survey when selling your home?
Completing a pre-purchase asbestos survey is a good idea if you’re selling your home. This will be conducted by a trained asbestos professional who will help identify, assess and sample suspected asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) at the property.
The asbestos survey results offer valuable information to both sellers and buyers regarding the presence, location and condition of ACMs. This can build trust with buyers and allow informed decision-making and ongoing risk management.
Do you have to disclose the presence of asbestos to buyers?
Sellers are legally obliged to inform potential buyers about the presence of asbestos if they know about it. Failure to disclose known asbestos hazards can result in legal action and financial consequences for sellers.
Ensure you provide potential house purchasers with accurate, detailed information about the presence of asbestos, including any surveys or reports carried out in the past. You may even want to include asbestos-related disclosures in the sales contract to ensure transparency and protect both parties from future claims.
Should you have asbestos removed from your home before selling?
There are various options available when selling a home with asbestos. Some people decide to remove asbestos from their property with the help of a professional contractor. This decision will be based on the current condition of asbestos-containing materials and exposure risks. In some cases, you may even consider asbestos encapsulation.
Working with asbestos professionals is the key to a smooth process, as they can survey and test any potential asbestos before your house goes on the market.
Do you need a pre-purchase asbestos survey? Contact us
Goodbye Asbestos offers expert asbestos surveys, testing and removals across the Home Counties and London, coming out to Hayes, Hayling Island and beyond.
For a free quote, please get in touch.
