Is There Asbestos in My Home?

30 Apr 2025

If your home was built or renovated in Ireland before the year 2000, there’s a real chance that asbestos may be present somewhere inside. It’s not something anyone wants to discover, but knowing what to look for (and what to do next) can be extremely important in protecting your health and your home.

Asbestos was widely used in construction for decades. It appeared in everything from roof panels and pipe insulation to textured ceilings, floor tiles, and boiler flues. While it’s now banned, older homes may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMS), and they don’t always look dangerous.

Why Asbestos Is Still a Risk in Irish Homes

Fortunately, asbestos is only dangerous when disturbed. However, if you’re planning some renovations, even basic drilling or sanding can release microscopic fibres into the air, and if you inhale any of those fibres, it can cause you serious health problems, like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

That’s why asbestos surveys are so important before any work takes place. Professional asbestos surveyors can assess your home, identify any risks, and advise on the safest next steps. It’s not about panicking - it’s about staying safe.

What to Do If You Suspect Asbestos

If you think your property might contain asbestos, don’t ever try to investigate it yourself, as tearing up tiles or removing old insulation could make things much worse. Instead, contact qualified asbestos companies who specialise in asbestos surveys and safe asbestos removal. 

In many cases, it’s better (and safer) to leave the material undisturbed if it’s in good condition, but that call should always be made by trained professionals.

Offering Trusted Asbestos Support Across Ireland

At OHSS, we’ve supported thousands of Irish homeowners with expert asbestos abatement advice and other occupational hygiene services. Whatever you need, our team is here to guide you through every step. We help clients navigate asbestos regulations and can advise on selecting licensed contractors for removal and disposal.

Dealing with asbestos doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does need to be handled right. If you're unsure how to remove asbestos or just want to confirm your home is safe, we’re here to help. Visit www.ohss.ie or call 01 6905907 to speak with our team about asbestos disposal, surveys, or removal anywhere in Ireland.

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