YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

If asbestos is identified, we’ll provide the results in plain English and explain exactly what they mean for your property. This is where our expertise really comes in — we don’t just test, we specialise in the safe removal of a wide range of asbestos-containing materials. Most removal projects take no more than a day or two with our experienced team, and we pride ourselves on leaving every site immaculate once the works are complete. In addition, we can also handle reinstatement — for example, re-boarding and plastering — so your home is put back together as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Yes. Our asbestos testing is completely safe and carried out in line with HSE guidance. The inspection itself is non-intrusive, which means we do not open up walls, ceilings, floors, or hidden voids. We only assess and sample materials that are already visible and accessible. To confirm whether a material contains asbestos, we may take a very small sample (usually no bigger than a 50p piece). Some people assume this makes the process “intrusive,” but in industry terms it does not, because we are not breaking into concealed areas or altering the structure of the property. Each sample point is immediately sealed and disguised with tape, paint or sealant, leaving no ongoing risk. The process is discreet, safe, and designed to give you accurate results with the least possible disruption.

If your property was built before 2000 and you’re planning any kind of refurbishment or demolition works, it’s strongly recommended. Common materials like textured coatings (Artex), floor tiles, cement sheets and insulation boards often contain asbestos. Testing confirms whether they’re safe or need professional management.

We strongly advise against DIY testing. While kits are available online, they often lead to two major problems: Slow turnaround – results can take weeks to come back, which can cause delays if you’re trying to move forward with a project or property purchase. Inaccurate or false results – from experience we’ve found DIY samples are often taken incorrectly, meaning they either miss asbestos that is present or cause unnecessary alarm where there is none. There’s also the risk of handling asbestos materials unsafely, which can release dangerous fibres. With our service, samples are taken safely and correctly by trained professionals, results are usually back within 24–48 hours, and we provide a full certificate of analysis with clear next steps. This gives you reliable information you can act on straight away, without the risks or delays of DIY kits.

Once we collect your samples, they are prepared, documented, and securely submitted for specialist analysis through our UKAS-accredited testing process. Results are usually ready within 24–48 hours. You’ll then receive a formal certificate of analysis, along with our professional interpretation so you know exactly what the findings mean and what, if anything, needs to happen next. This ensures you’re not just given lab data, you’re given clear, actionable advice for your property.

All asbestos waste is classed as hazardous and must be handled under strict legal controls. Once removed, it is carefully bagged. securely wrapped and sealed to prevent any risk of fibre release. It is then transported in a licensed waste vehicle to an authorised asbestos disposal facility. These facilities are designed to safely contain and permanently dispose of asbestos in line with all HSE and Environment Agency regulations. Consignment notes prove that the asbestos from your property has been disposed of responsibly and compliantly. Be cautious of rogue traders, quoting low prices and cutting corners, including illegally fly-tipping the asbestos waste. Not only is this unsafe, but as the property owner you could be held legally responsible. By choosing a fully qualified and insured contractor, you protect yourself and ensure the job is completed properly from start to finish

For most small-scale non-licensed removals, you can remain in the property. For larger or more complex works, we’ll advise you if temporary relocation is recommended.

Not always. If asbestos is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, it can technically be left in place and managed. However, from experience, leaving asbestos in a property often leads to problems later on especially when it comes to renovations, extensions, or most certainly selling the home. Future proofing your property by removing asbestos before you move in or begin works is usually the most practical and cost effective choice. It means you won’t face delays, unexpected costs, or restrictions further down the line. Our team specialises in safe asbestos removal across a wide range of materials, and most projects take no more than a day or two. We also leave the site spotless and can provide reinstatement services such as re-boarding and plastering, so your home is ready for use straight away. By tackling asbestos, you avoid future headaches and ensure your property is safe, compliant, and easy to maintain.

The cost of asbestos removal depends on several variables, which is why we ask for clear detailed photographs and accurate dimensions before providing a quotation. Factors such as the type of asbestos, access, the setup required, and whether other materials need to be removed first can all affect the price. Larger areas can often reduce the overall cost per unit, while smaller, more complex jobs may require additional preparation. It’s important to be cautious of companies that throw out “too good to be true” quotations without properly understanding the full scope of the job. In our experience, these prices often change once the contractor is on site leaving you with unexpected costs, delays, and in some cases unsafe work.

When carried out by trained, licensed professionals, removal is completely safe. We follow full HSE procedures, use specialist equipment, and provide waste consignment notes for peace of mind.

Yes. If asbestos is present, it will be flagged during surveys carried out, as part of the property sale process. This can raise concerns for potential buyers and even slow down or derail a sale. Having up-to-date asbestos testing certificates gives buyers clear evidence of what materials are present and whether they pose a risk. If asbestos is found, choosing professional removal before putting your home on the market can make a huge difference. It eliminates future uncertainty, prevents negotiations being knocked down on price, and provides reassurance that the property is safe and compliant. We specialise in both testing and removals. Our process is quick, with results typically back within 24–48 hours, and most removal jobs completed in just a day or two. We also leave the site immaculate and, where needed, provide reinstatement services such as re-boarding and plastering, meaning your home is market-ready without delay. By addressing asbestos now, you’ll futureproof your property, protect its value, and give buyers the confidence to move forward smoothly.

If you think you’ve disturbed asbestos, the most important thing is to stop work immediately and avoid touching the area any further. Disturbance is what causes fibres to become airborne. The safest steps are: Ventilate the affected room to disperse any potential fibres Close off the area to prevent others from entering Contact us straight away for guidance In most cases, the next step will be immediate testing so we can confirm whether asbestos is present and advise you on safe management or removal. Acting quickly minimises any risk and ensures the issue is handled properly from the start. With our service, we can often attend at short notice, carry out testing discreetly, and provide fast results so you know exactly where you stand.

We usually just ask for clear access to the areas in question. For removals, moving furniture and personal items away from the work zone is extremely helpful.

Licensed work covers high-risk materials such as AIB (asbestos insulation or insulation board) which require HSE notification and strict controls. Non-licensed work covers lower-risk materials like textured coatings, floor tiles and cement sheets, which can be removed safely by trained, non-licensed contractors like us.

We often see quotations that are far lower than industry standards. When we look into them, it’s usually because corners are being cut, whether that’s inadequate training, missing insurance, or unsafe disposal methods. For your protection, you should never just take a contractor’s word for it. Always ask to see credentials and insurance documents before proceeding. Be cautious of anyone unwilling to provide these upfront. At Alpha Asbestos Solutions, we provide all of our credentials and insurance with every quotation, and when we quote against others, we make sure it’s on a genuine like-for-like basis so you can see the difference in professionalism and compliance.

Do Stop work immediately – further disturbance increases risk. Ventilate the room – open windows carefully to allow fresh air flow. Close off the area – keep doors shut and prevent others from entering. Contact a professional – call Alpha Asbestos Solutions for immediate advice and testing. Arrange testing quickly – fast confirmation gives you clear next steps. Don’t 1. Don’t attempt to sweep, vacuum, or wipe up dust. 2. Don’t cut, drill, sand, or break apart the material further. 3. Don’t bag or dispose of the debris yourself – asbestos waste must be legally handled. 4. Don’t rely on guesswork – only laboratory testing can confirm if asbestos is present. Next Steps Call 0808 304 0401 or email info@alphaasbestos.co.uk immediately. We can usually attend at short notice, carry out discreet testing, and provide results within 24–48 hours. If asbestos is confirmed, we’ll give you a clear plan for safe removal and reinstatement if required.