If you find asbestos in your rented home, do not touch it, break it, drill into it, or try to remove it yourself. Asbestos becomes dangerous when it is damaged or disturbed.
As a tenant, you have the right to live in a safe home. If asbestos is exposed, damaged, or being ignored by your landlord, it may become a serious housing issue.
For wider tenant repair support, visit the Housing Disrepair Team or read about their housing disrepair claims service.
Is Asbestos Always Dangerous?
Asbestos is not always an immediate risk if it is sealed, undamaged, and left alone. The danger starts when asbestos materials are cracked, broken, drilled, removed, or disturbed.
It may be found in older homes in places like:
- Ceiling tiles
- Floor tiles
- Pipe insulation
- Wall panels
- Artex ceilings
- Roof sheets
- Old boiler cupboards
If you suspect asbestos, treat it seriously and report it.
What Should Your Landlord Do?
Your landlord should not ignore suspected asbestos. They may need to arrange a professional inspection or asbestos survey, especially if the material is damaged or repair work could disturb it.
Landlords are expected to keep rented homes safe and free from serious hazards. GOV.UK confirms landlords must keep homes in repair, fit for human habitation, and free from serious hazards.
For shared areas in flats, such as corridors, staircases, lifts, roof spaces, gardens, garages, and outhouses, HSE says the person responsible for maintenance, often the landlord, must manage asbestos risks.
What Should You Do First?
Take these steps:
- Do not touch the material
- Take clear photos from a safe distance
- Report it to your landlord in writing
- Ask for a professional inspection
- Keep all messages and replies
- Contact the council if your landlord ignores you
Do not collect a sample yourself. Testing should be done by trained professionals.
Can You Ask the Council for Help?
Yes. If your landlord does nothing, contact your local council’s Environmental Health team. They can inspect the property if there may be a health or safety risk.
Shelter says landlords must safely manage asbestos and tenants can take action if the measures are not enough.
Can You Claim Against Your Landlord?
You may be able to claim if:
- The asbestos is damaged or exposed
- Your landlord knew but failed to act
- Repair work disturbed asbestos
- The home became unsafe
- You had to leave the property
- Your health or belongings were affected
A claim is stronger if you have written complaints, photos, inspection notes, and proof that your landlord delayed action.
Get Local Housing Disrepair Help
If asbestos has been found in your rented home and your landlord is not dealing with it, get advice before the risk gets worse.
They also support tenants in areas such as London, Manchester, Bradford, and Stockport.
Final Answer
If asbestos is found in your rented home, your landlord must take it seriously. You should not touch it or remove it yourself. Report it in writing, keep evidence, ask for a proper inspection, and contact the council if your landlord ignores the problem.
If the asbestos is damaged, exposed, or making your home unsafe, you may be able to take action through a housing disrepair claim.