Friable vs. Non-Friable Asbestos Explained

Experienced Asbestos Specialists

West Country Asbestos is a specialist asbestos testing and removal company serving Exeter and the wider South West. Our team works with homeowners, landlords, contractors and businesses to identify and manage asbestos safely. With extensive experience across residential, commercial and industrial properties, we focus on delivering practical guidance, reliable service and safe working practices on every project.

Safety & Compliance at the Core

Handling asbestos requires careful planning, professional knowledge and strict adherence to UK safety regulations. At West Country Asbestos, every project is approached with a strong commitment to safety and compliance. From the first inspection through to testing, surveying or removal work, we follow controlled procedures designed to minimise risk and protect both occupants and workers.

Supporting Property Owners Across the South West

Our work regularly takes us across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and surrounding areas where older buildings may still contain asbestos materials. Whether assisting with property surveys, renovation preparation or safe asbestos removal, our aim is to provide clear advice and dependable support so property owners can make informed decisions about managing asbestos risks.

WESTCOUNTRY ASBESTOS REMOVAL

Trusted Asbestos Specialists Serving the South West

West Country Asbestos Removal works with property owners and businesses across the South West to safely identify, assess and manage asbestos within buildings. Our team supports homeowners, landlords, contractors and commercial organisations who require professional guidance when asbestos-containing materials may be present.

Through a combination of asbestos testing, detailed surveys and safe removal work, we help clients understand potential risks within their properties and determine the most appropriate course of action. Every project begins with careful assessment and clear advice so that work can proceed safely and responsibly.

Health, safety and compliance remain at the centre of everything we do. From initial site visits through to final clearance, our work follows established procedures designed to minimise disruption while ensuring asbestos materials are managed or removed in accordance with current UK regulations.

We operate across a wide area of the South West including Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and nearby counties. Our branch pages highlight the areas where we regularly carry out asbestos testing, surveys and removal services, helping visitors quickly find the information most relevant to their location.

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Helping Property Owners Manage Asbestos Safely

West Country Asbestos was established to help property owners across the South West deal with asbestos safely, responsibly and with clear professional guidance. Many buildings constructed during the twentieth century still contain asbestos materials, often hidden within structural components or building products installed decades ago.

Our role is to help homeowners, landlords, businesses and contractors understand whether asbestos may be present and what steps should be taken to manage it safely. Through professional asbestos testing, detailed surveys and safe removal work where necessary, we support clients at every stage of the process.

Asbestos testing allows suspected materials to be sampled and analysed by accredited laboratories, confirming whether asbestos fibres are present. Where asbestos is identified, surveys provide a clearer picture of its condition, location and potential risk so that property owners can make informed decisions about how it should be managed.

When removal is required, work is carried out using controlled procedures designed to minimise fibre release and ensure safe disposal of hazardous materials. Throughout every project, our focus remains on safety, compliance and clear communication with the people responsible for the property.

Our team regularly works across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset, Gloucestershire and surrounding areas, supporting both residential and commercial clients throughout the South West.

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About West Country Asbestos: Frequently Asked Questions

What does West Country Asbestos specialise in?

West Country Asbestos focuses on helping property owners safely identify and manage asbestos within buildings. Our work includes asbestos testing, detailed surveys and safe removal services. By combining practical site experience with clear reporting, we help homeowners, landlords and businesses understand asbestos risks and choose the most appropriate solution for their property.

Who typically works with West Country Asbestos?

Our clients include homeowners, landlords, property managers, construction companies, developers and commercial organisations. Many contact us when preparing for renovation work, property purchases, building maintenance or refurbishment projects where asbestos may be present.

Which areas does your team operate in?

West Country Asbestos works throughout the South West of England, regularly carrying out projects across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and neighbouring counties. Our team supports both residential and commercial properties across towns, cities and rural areas within the region.

What approach do you take when dealing with asbestos?

Our approach is based on safety, clear communication and careful assessment. Every property is different, so we begin by identifying potential asbestos-containing materials and advising on the most appropriate course of action. Where required, we carry out testing, surveys or removal work using controlled procedures that follow current UK asbestos regulations.

Why is professional asbestos advice important?

Asbestos can remain hidden within buildings for many years and may only become apparent during maintenance or refurbishment work. Professional assessment helps confirm whether asbestos is present and ensures any work involving asbestos-containing materials is handled safely and in line with legal requirements.

What makes West Country Asbestos different?

We focus on providing clear advice and dependable service for every project we undertake. Our team works closely with clients to explain the process, answer questions and ensure asbestos is managed responsibly. By combining practical experience with a strong focus on safety and compliance, we aim to provide reassurance and reliable support for property owners across the South West.

Professional Asbestos Testing, Surveys & Removal in Exeter

Where Asbestos May Be Located in Older Buildings

Asbestos-containing materials were widely used throughout the UK construction industry for many decades, which means they may still exist within buildings today. In many cases these materials remain hidden behind walls, ceilings or structural components and may not be discovered until refurbishment, repair or maintenance work begins.

Across Exeter and the wider South West, properties built before the year 2000 can still contain asbestos within various building products. Problems typically arise when materials are drilled, cut, broken or allowed to deteriorate over time, as this can release fine fibres into the surrounding air.

Within domestic properties, asbestos may be present in areas such as garage or outbuilding roofs, soffits, ceiling coatings, floor tiles, pipe boxing and insulation boards. These materials may remain undisturbed for years, but building alterations or renovation work can expose them if asbestos surveys or testing have not been carried out beforehand.

Larger buildings often involve additional considerations. Offices, schools, warehouses and industrial premises around Exeter frequently used asbestos-based materials within fire protection systems, insulation boards, plant rooms and service areas. Assessing these materials through professional asbestos testing or surveys helps determine whether they can be safely managed in place or require specialist removal.

Understanding what materials may be present — and taking appropriate action early — allows property owners, landlords and businesses to manage asbestos safely while meeting current UK safety regulations.

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Types of Asbestos Found in the UK

What types of asbestos were commonly used in the UK?

Three primary types of asbestos were widely used in buildings across the United Kingdom: chrysotile (white asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos) and crocidolite (blue asbestos). These fibres were valued for their heat resistance, strength and insulating properties, which led to their use in construction materials such as insulation boards, cement sheets, pipe lagging, roofing products and textured coatings before asbestos was banned.

What is chrysotile (white asbestos)?

Chrysotile, commonly known as white asbestos, is the most frequently encountered asbestos type in UK buildings. It was widely used in cement roofing sheets, textured coatings, floor tiles, insulation materials and wall panels. Although it was often considered less hazardous than other forms, chrysotile still poses significant health risks when fibres are released and inhaled.

What is amosite (brown asbestos)?

Amosite, or brown asbestos, was commonly used in insulation boards, ceiling tiles, thermal insulation products and fire protection panels. It was particularly valued for its durability and fire resistance, which meant it was frequently installed in commercial buildings and industrial properties. Amosite fibres are highly hazardous when disturbed and must be handled by trained professionals.

What is crocidolite (blue asbestos)?

Crocidolite, often called blue asbestos, is considered the most dangerous form of asbestos due to its extremely fine fibres. These fibres can remain airborne for long periods and are easily inhaled, increasing the risk of serious respiratory diseases. Crocidolite was historically used in spray coatings, pipe insulation and certain cement products.

Are there other forms of asbestos?

In addition to the three main types used in UK construction, there are other naturally occurring asbestos minerals such as tremolite, actinolite and anthophyllite. These were not commonly used commercially in the UK but may still appear as contaminants within other asbestos-containing materials or certain mineral deposits.

Which type of asbestos is the most dangerous?

Crocidolite is generally regarded as the most hazardous form of asbestos because its fibres are extremely thin and can penetrate deep into lung tissue when inhaled. However, all types of asbestos are considered dangerous when fibres become airborne, which is why professional identification and safe management are essential whenever asbestos-containing materials are suspected.

How can the type of asbestos in a building be identified?

The only reliable way to identify the type of asbestos present in a material is through professional asbestos testing. Specialists take controlled samples which are analysed by accredited laboratories using microscopic techniques to determine the fibre type. This helps property owners understand potential risks and decide whether asbestos should be managed or removed.

Asbestos Removal Branch Areas

    
 
 
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   Tracy A 
 02/09/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From my 1st contact to the complete removal of our asbestos cement wall panels, we were delighted with the team at Westcountry Asbestos Removals. I received a quick and clear reply to all my enquiries and the quote was transparent. When we were ready to proceed, the team were easy to contact and make the arrangements to suit our schedule. Ella made a courtesy call the night before and Kevin arrived exactly at the given time the next day. The work was completed very efficiently and we were very pleased that the affected room was left in a immaculate condition, minus the wall panels. In addition to our obvious safety concerns, we were impressed with the care and concientiousness towards us and our home. We cannot recommend the team highly enough.
  
 
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   Nicola L 
 17/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Expert service. Competitive pricing. From my initial phone enquiry, I knew I was in great hands. Ella was knowledgeable, professional and extremely helpful in assessing my query. Bryn was down to earth, prompt and efficient during his visit. Five star service all round. I highly recommend.
  
 
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   Jonathan H 
 08/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really professional, and great customer service. Thanks so much!
  
 
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   Boo 
 31/05/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kevin came and removed some boarding above our fireplace. He was very polite, efficient and left everywhere extremely clean and tidy.
  
 
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   J R 
 26/05/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great communication before and during, great work completed, and left it cleaner than when they arrived!
  
 
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   Crista B 
 22/05/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very efficient friendly service carried out by Kevin. Everything left pristine and tidy and everything disposed of correctly. No hesitation in recommending this company.
  
 
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   Sophie G 
 02/04/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Westcountry Asbestos called us the same day we enquired and asked all the right questions which meant they quoted correctly for the job. They double checked our testing and were really helpful with items that needed to be moved and cleaned. They were polite, professional and friendly, explaining everything along the way and doing a great job. They removed the offending material and cleaned up to a high standard. Hopefully we won't need to but we would definitely use them again!
  
 
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   Alan E 
 27/03/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Seriously lovely people, dealing with seriously nasty stuff. Found some old cementitious tiles that were ‘left’ from some previous building work… rather than being dealt with…. Grrr. I contacted WAR on a Sunday, got a response, and arranged over email when someone would collect the tiles. Fortunately a very quick job, and a fair price - especially when you consider the cost of properly dealing with the disposal. Yes - it’s annoying that you have to pay, …and yes, it’s annoying that some ‘builders’ think its okay to just leave things in a corner, rather than dealing with them…. But it’s nice to get it sorted. Thanks WAR.
  
 
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   Kean H 
 27/03/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Unbelievable service from Kevin and bryn. They were on time and worked very efficiently, making sure everything was carried out in a safe and professional manor. Highly recommend:))
  
 
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   T E 
 18/03/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely recommend this family run company. Our experience was efficient and informed right from the first email. The response to my, (many) emails was always prompt and nothing was too much trouble. The work itself was carried out in such a way that I felt reassured and confident that it would all be taken care of, and it was! First class workmanship & very thorough. Really lovely people to do business with. Thank you so much Westcountry Asbestos Removal!