If youโve been told asbestos is present in your property, your first question is usually:
๐ โWhat actually happens next?โ
For many people, asbestos removal feels like a bit of a mystery โ and understandably so. Itโs a highly controlled process, carried out under strict regulations, with safety as the top priority.
In this guide, weโll walk you through exactly what happens during licensed asbestos removal, step by step โ so you know what to expect, whatโs involved, and why itโs so important to use experienced professionals.
What Does โLicensed Asbestos Removalโ Actually Mean?
Not all asbestos work is the same.
Some lower-risk materials can be handled under non-licensed conditions. However, higher-risk asbestos materials โ such as insulation, lagging, and certain boards โ require:
๐ A licensed asbestos contractor
This means:
- The company is approved to carry out high-risk work
- Operatives are fully trained and qualified
- Work is carried out under strict safety controls
- Regulations from the HSE are followed at every stage
๐ This isnโt a job for general builders or DIY.
Step 1: Initial Survey & Risk Assessment
Before any removal begins, a detailed asbestos survey is carried out.
This identifies:
- The type of asbestos present
- Its condition
- The level of risk
- The safest method of removal
From here, a plan of work is created โ outlining exactly how the job will be completed safely and compliantly.
Step 2: Site Setup & Controlled Work Area
Before removal starts, the area is fully prepared.
This often includes:
- Sealing off the work area
- Installing warning signage
- Creating a controlled enclosure (airtight space)
- Setting up negative pressure units to prevent fibres escaping
๐ The goal is simple: contain everything.
Step 3: Airlocks & Decontamination Units
For higher-risk work, specialised systems are installed, including:
๐น Airlocks
Allow safe entry and exit without releasing fibres
๐น Decontamination Units (DCUs)
Used by operatives to safely remove contaminated clothing and equipment
This ensures asbestos fibres are not carried outside the work zone.
Step 4: Safe Removal of Asbestos Materials
Now the removal begins โ and itโs done with extreme care.
Operatives will:
- Wear full PPE and respiratory protection
- Use controlled techniques to minimise fibre release
- Carefully remove materials in sections
- Avoid breaking or damaging materials where possible
In some cases, materials are dampened to reduce airborne fibres.
๐ Every step is about control and precision.
Step 5: Safe Packaging & Waste Handling
Once removed, asbestos materials are:
- Double-bagged in specialist packaging
- Clearly labelled as hazardous waste
- Stored securely on site
They are then transported by licensed carriers to approved disposal facilities.
๐ This is a legal requirement โ asbestos cannot be disposed of like general waste.
Step 6: Air Monitoring & Testing
During and after removal, air testing may be carried out to ensure:
- Fibre levels are controlled
- The area is safe
Independent analysts may be involved to verify safety levels.
Step 7: Clearance & Certification
Before the area can be used again, it must pass a strict clearance process, often including:
- Visual inspection
- Thorough cleaning checks
- Air testing
- Final assessment
Once complete, a Certificate of Reoccupation is issued.
๐ This confirms the area is safe to return to.
How Long Does Asbestos Removal Take?
This depends on:
- Size of the area
- Type of asbestos
- Complexity of the job
Some projects may take:
- A single day
- Several days
- Longer for large or complex sites
๐ Your contractor will provide a clear timeline before work begins.
Why You Should Never Use Unlicensed Contractors
We canโt stress this enough.
Using unqualified or unlicensed contractors can lead to:
- Unsafe removal
- Fibre contamination
- Legal consequences
- Failed inspections
- Costly rework
Weโre often called in to fix jobs where:
๐ Corners were cut
๐ Safety was ignored
๐ Problems were made worse
Real Talk: What We See on Site
Some of the most common issues we encounter:
- Materials already disturbed before assessment
- Poorly contained work areas
- Incorrect disposal attempts
- Exposure risks to occupants or workers
By the time we arrive, what could have been a straightforward job has become far more complex.
Why the Process Matters
Licensed asbestos removal isnโt just about taking something out.
Itโs about:
- Protecting health
- Preventing contamination
- Meeting legal requirements
- Ensuring long-term safety
Done properly, it gives you complete peace of mind.
Done badlyโฆ it creates serious risks.
FAQs
What is licensed asbestos removal?
Itโs the safe removal of higher-risk asbestos materials by approved contractors working under strict regulations.
Do I always need a licensed contractor?
Not always, but for higher-risk materials and many projects, it is a legal requirement.
Will I need to leave the property?
In many cases, yes โ especially for higher-risk work. Your contractor will advise based on the situation.
Is asbestos removal dangerous?
It can be if done incorrectly. Licensed professionals follow strict procedures to keep risks controlled.
What happens after asbestos is removed?
The area is cleaned, tested, and certified safe before reoccupation.
Can asbestos removal delay my project?
If planned properly, it can be scheduled efficiently. Delays usually happen when asbestos is discovered unexpectedly.
Need Expert Help With Asbestos Removal?
If youโve identified asbestos โ or suspect it may be present โ the safest step is to speak to a licensed professional.
At MD Environmental, we provide:
- Licensed asbestos removal
- Surveys and testing
- Safe, compliant solutions across domestic, commercial and industrial sites
๐ From first assessment to final clearance, we handle the entire process.
Call our team: 0330 043 8778
Email: hello@md-env.com
Get in touch today for expert advice and a no-obligation quote.
