Asbestos Soffit Removal
Asbestos soffits were commonly installed in UK properties prior to the late 1980s. While many are manufactured from asbestos cement, others may contain higher-risk asbestos insulating board (AIB).
Correct identification is essential to ensure safe, compliant removal in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and HSE guidance, including HSG247.
Types of asbestos found in soffits
Soffits can contain different asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), each subject to different legal controls. Visual inspection alone is not sufficient to determine the material type.
| Aspect | Asbestos Cement Soffits | Asbestos Insulating Board (AIB) Soffits |
|---|---|---|
| Typical asbestos type | Chrysotile (white asbestos) | Amosite or mixed fibres |
| Material friability | Lower – fibres bound in cement matrix | Higher – fibres more easily released |
| Licence required | Usually non-licensed | Licensed work |
| HSE notification | Sometimes NNLW | ASB5 – minimum 14 days |
| Removal controls | Controlled methods, trained operatives | Full enclosure, negative pressure, clearance |
In line with HSG247, correct classification must be confirmed by sampling and analysis before any asbestos soffit removal work is undertaken.
Licensed and non-licensed asbestos soffit work
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, some soffit removals can be carried out as non-licensed or notifiable non-licensed work. Where asbestos insulating board or higher-risk materials are identified, the work becomes licensed.
Licensed asbestos soffit removal must be undertaken by an HSE-licensed contractor and notified to the Health and Safety Executive using an ASB5 form at least 14 days before work commences.
Survey-led, compliant approach
In line with HSG247, asbestos materials must be correctly identified through UKAS-accredited sampling and analysis before removal. We provide clear advice on whether soffits require licensed removal, notifiable non-licensed work, or controlled non-licensed techniques.
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For safe, compliant asbestos soffit removal across your local area, contact us for expert advice. Call us directly or complete the enquiry form on the homepage.
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