Can My Builder Remove Asbestos?

A common question we are asked is: “Can my builder remove asbestos?” The answer depends on the type of asbestos work involved and, crucially, what licences, training and insurance the contractor holds.

In Great Britain, licences issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are required for licensable asbestos removal work, such as work involving asbestos insulation, asbestos insulating board (AIB) or sprayed coatings. These licences confirm that a contractor has the management systems, trained workforce, equipment and experience necessary to safely carry out high-risk asbestos removal.

This is separate from licences or registrations issued by environment agencies (such as the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency), which relate to the carriage and disposal of hazardous waste. Holding a waste carrier’s licence alone does not permit a contractor to physically remove asbestos from a property; it only allows them to transport waste once it has been lawfully removed. Ask your builder which type of licence they hold.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012), anyone working with asbestos must have appropriate information, instruction and training relevant to the type of work being undertaken. This ranges from asbestos awareness training through to task-specific training for non-licensable or licensable work. Contractors must also be adequately insured for asbestos activities, with insurance that explicitly covers the work being carried out.

Using an incorrectly licensed or inadequately trained contractor can expose dutyholders to serious health, legal and financial risks.

If your project involves the risk of asbestos-containing materials, Casa Environmental Services can provide professional support, including surveys, advice on the appropriate management strategy, and project management of asbestos remediation. Contact us to discuss your project and ensure you manage asbestos safely and without fuss.