Released On 27th Jan 2025

Do Housing Associations Have to Remove Asbestos?

Asbestos management is a critical responsibility for housing associations in the UK, but do they always need to remove asbestos? The short answer is no. Understanding the legal obligations and best practices surrounding asbestos is essential for ensuring tenant safety and compliance with regulations.

What Does the Law Say?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) governs the management of asbestos in the UK. Under these regulations, duty holders—including housing associations—must ensure that asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are identified and properly managed. However, removal is not always mandatory. The law focuses on managing the risk, which can often be achieved by leaving the asbestos in place, provided it is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed.

When Must Asbestos Be Removed?

There are specific situations where removal becomes necessary:

Refurbishment or Demolition Before any major renovation or demolition work, an asbestos survey must be conducted. If ACMs are present and at risk of being disturbed, they must be removed safely by licensed professionals.
Deteriorating Condition If asbestos materials are damaged or deteriorating, they pose a significant health risk and must be removed or repaired immediately.
Tenant Safety Concerns In cases where tenants are at risk due to exposed or damaged asbestos, removal may be required to eliminate the hazard.

Managing Asbestos Safely

For housing associations, the priority should always be safety and compliance. This means:

Conducting regular asbestos surveys and risk assessments.
Maintaining an up-to-date asbestos management plan.
Ensuring all contractors and maintenance staff are aware of the presence of asbestos and trained in how to handle it safely.

Benefits of Proactive Management

While asbestos removal is not always required, proactive management has several advantages:

Improved Safety: Minimising the risk of asbestos exposure for tenants and staff.
Regulatory Compliance: Avoiding hefty fines and legal action.
Cost Savings: Preventing emergency repairs or removals by addressing issues early.

Partnering for Compliance

Housing associations can streamline their asbestos management by using tools like TEAMS Software. With features like real-time data access, automated reminders, and robust reporting, TEAMS helps housing associations stay compliant and focused on tenant safety.

Final Thoughts

Housing associations dont always have to remove asbestos, but they do have a legal and moral responsibility to manage it safely. By understanding when removal is necessary and focusing on effective risk management, they can protect tenants and ensure compliance with the law. Would you like to learn more about how TEAMS Software can help you manage asbestos data effectively? Contact us today!