Cancer Research UK main site

Asbestos exposure in the Home

bencee
Offline

We recently had builders in to remove and replace 2 bathrooms. This did involve knocking into walls and ceilings. The house was built in the 1970's and I am aware there is asbestos in the garage ceilings but not sure about the bathroom celings and walls. 

My concern is if they did disturb asbestos then it is likely the fibres are all round the house. I am panicking as I have 2 children living there with me. We did move out whilst the work was done, however all our stuff was still in the house at the time, having moved back in it occurred to me there could now be fibres in the carpets etc. 

What sort of  a risk is this to me and my family and should I replace all carpets?

 

Thanks for your help.

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    We are often contacted by the general public worried about asbestos. However it is usually people who had prolonged exposure to asbestos over many years (without adequate protective equipment) and have breathed in the asbestos fibres through their occupation who are at greatest risk of developing mesothelioma ( the type of cancer linked to asbestos) later in life.  

    These days there are very strict health and safety guidelines for builders and workman to follow if and when they come in contact with asbestos in buildings. I am sure if there had been any signs they would have told you and possibly the work would have been delayed. 

    For you peace of mind you could speak to the builders who carried out the work in your house and ask them.

    I hope this is helpful.

    Best wishes

    Naomi

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.