50% of properties in the UK built before 1999 are estimated to have asbestos, and it’s not uncommon to discover that your home contains hazardous material so it's crucial you know the facts.

Selling a home in Worcester that contains asbestos is legal, but there are some rules you need to follow – particularly if you are aware that your home contains the product or if you know it’s damaged and causing a risk to the health of anyone that purchases your home.

If your home contains asbestos and you are wondering what you need to consider when selling it, here’s an overview of how to sell a home with asbestos in Worcester and what legal requirements you need to bear in mind.

Do I Have to Disclose Asbestos to Buyers?

Yes, in Worcester and across the UK, you have to disclose asbestos to buyers if you know about it due to legislation like the property misdescriptions act. This is particularly important if you know the asbestos exposure is disturbed or damaged and presents an issue to the health of anyone who purchases your property.

How Do I Know If I Have Asbestos in My Home?

Asbestos was officially banned in the UK in 1999, but usage of the product in the construction of residential properties started to decline around the 1980s. If your home was built before the ban, particularly during the 60s or 70s, you may find asbestos somewhere.

However, the product is hard to identify, particularly since it can be hidden. There are two things you can do to identify whether your home has asbestos.

• Arrange a survey from a chartered surveyor

• Get a laboratory test done on the suspected areas

Usually, it’s not necessary to get a test done unless you need to remove asbestos during a home renovation project. Simply having a surveyor inspect the property can be enough to determine whether your home potentially contains asbestos or not.  

Can Asbestos Impact a Sale?

Generally, having asbestos present in your home won’t impact the sale. However, there are some exceptions. For example, asbestos becomes dangerous when it’s damaged.

If the asbestos in your home is damaged and poses a threat to people’s health when living in the property, it can put buyers off and lower the amount of interest you get in your property. Plus, since any buyer will have to pay to fix the asbestos issues, it can also negatively impact the value of your property.

Get a Valuation

Asbestos doesn’t have to cause an issue when selling your home. It all depends on where it is and what condition the asbestos is in.

If you need advice from an expert about selling your Worcester home with asbestos, Shelton & Lines are your local property experts. We are happy to arrange a valuation of your home and offer advice on how to sell a home with asbestos in Worcester.

Don't let asbestos affect property prices. Give us a call today to book a valuation with our friendly team on 01905 616330 or send us an email at info@sheltonandlines.co.uk to arrange a call back.

Frequently Asked Questions About How Asbestos Fibres Impact Property Prices

How does the presence of asbestos in my home impact property prices?

While asbestos itself may not necessarily impact property prices, the potential threat arises when it's damaged. If the asbestos poses a health risk, it can deter buyers and influence the level of interest in your property, potentially affecting its market value.

Is it necessary to conduct an asbestos removal survey before selling my home?

While not always mandatory, conducting an asbestos survey can be beneficial, especially if you're aware of the presence of asbestos. Identifying specific asbestos types, such as blue asbestos or brown asbestos, may influence the necessary precautions and potential buyer concerns, shaping your approach to the sale.

Can I proceed with selling my property if asbestos is discovered during a survey?

Yes, you can still sell your property if asbestos is discovered, but disclosure is crucial. Informing potential buyers about the presence of asbestos, especially if damaged, is a legal requirement. It allows buyers to make informed decisions and ensures compliance with regulations surrounding asbestos disclosure in residential property transactions.

How can I mitigate concerns about asbestos affecting the sale of my home?

To mitigate concerns, getting a valuation from experts is essential. While asbestos removal may not always be necessary, addressing any potential health risks and providing transparency about the condition of asbestos in your home can contribute to a successful property sale.