Vetting Asbestos Removal Contractors:
A Guide for Property Managers
Key Questions to Ask Contractors
Understanding the Risks: Why This Matters
Types of Asbestos and Their Risk Levels
Notifiable vs Non-Notifiable Asbestos Works
Legal Obligations for Property Managers
Required Licences and Accreditations
Documentation to Request
Methods of Verification
When to Call a Licensed Contractor
Resources and Links
Cambridge Roofers: Supporting Non-Notifiable Asbestos Roofing Works
Are you licensed by the HSE What is your licence number? You can verify their status via the HSE Licensed Contractor Database
Will this project require notification to the HSE?
Will a detailed Plan of Work be submitted?
Can you provide consignment notes for asbestos waste disposal?
What PPE and control measures will you use?
Do you use UKAS-accredited air monitoring?
Can I speak to your previous clients or view recent reports?
Crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown), and chrysotile (white) are the three most common types found in older buildings. Inhaling asbestos fibres can lead to severe health issues including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. If incorrect procedures are followed during removal or disturbance, fibres can become airborne and inhaled, potentially harming building occupants and workers.
| Type | Colour | Common Locations | Typical Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crocidolite | Blue | Insulation boards, pipe lagging | High |
| Amosite | Brown | Ceiling tiles, insulation panels | High |
| Chrysotile | White | Floor tiles, roof sheets, gaskets | Medium |
Previously used in spray-on coatings, pipe insulation, and cement products.
Image: IES Group. (2020, July 10). Does Asbestos Cause Health Problems? Retrieved April 9, 2025, from https://www.iesgroup.co.uk/2020/07/10/does-asbestos-cause-health-problems/
Amosite is often referred to as brown asbestos due to its typical appearance in mineral form. However, its colour can also range from pale grey to green, making visual identification unreliable. Because of this variation, the presence of amosite cannot be confirmed by colour alone and should always be verified through specialist asbestos testing.
Image: Whitmer, M. (2025, January 13). Asbestos Insulation: Pipe, Attic & Other Types | Companies & Brands. The Mesothelioma Center. Retrieved April 9, 2025, from https://www.asbestos.com/products/insulation/
Historically used in roofing materials, brake linings, gaskets, and insulation due to its heat resistance and durability.
Image: Maguire Brothers. (2022, July 5). Large and Commercial Asbestos Roofs – What Are Your Options? Retrieved April 9, 2025, from https://www.maguirebrothers.co.uk/articles/technical-articles/large-and-commercial-asbestos-roofs-what-are-your-options/
| Asbestos Type | Notifiable? | Common Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Crocidolite | ✅ Yes | Insulation, sprayed coatings, lagging |
| Amosite | ✅ Yes | Ceiling tiles, insulation panels |
| Chrysotile | ❌ No* | Cement roof sheets, floor tiles, gaskets |
*Chrysotile work may be non-notifiable only if in good condition and handled with low-risk methods.
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012:
Property managers must manage asbestos risks (Reg 4)
Prevent exposure to asbestos (Reg 11)
Appoint competent contractors (Reg 5)
Negligent appointments or failing to vet contractors properly could result in:
Fines
Prosecution
Personal liability
| Accreditation | Use | How to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| HSE Licence | Required for notifiable works | HSE Licence Register |
| UKATA Certificate | Non-licensed asbestos training | Ask contractor for up-to-date certs |
| Consignment Notes | Required for transport/disposal | Must be retained for 3 years |
| Insurance (PLI & ELI) | Confirm asbestos cover is included | Ask for policy schedule |
Asbestos Removal Plan of Work
HSE Notification Acknowledgment (if applicable)
Site-Specific Risk Assessment
Waste Transfer/Consignment Notes
Air Test Certificates (UKAS-accredited)
Cross-check HSE licence validity
Check company details on Companies House
Look for membership with ARCA or ACAD
Review past project reports or photographic evidence
Ensure paperwork is site-specific, not generic
Always use a fully licensed contractor if:
Crocidolite or amosite is present
Insulating boards, lagging, or sprayed coatings are involved
Work exceeds short duration limits or involves friable materials
At Cambridge Roofers, our in-house team is fully trained under UKATA certification to handle non-notifiable asbestos works such as asbestos cement roof sheet overlays and minor panel replacements.
We do not undertake licensed removal ourselves but partner with reputable licensed contractors when required and provide complete project management.
Contact Us to discuss roofing or refurbishment projects involving non-notifiable asbestos materials.
Cambridge Roofers is a reliable contractor for asbestos-related roofing works, including removal, encapsulation, and replacement. We follow all safety regulations and work closely with licensed professionals to ensure each project is handled responsibly and in compliance with current legislation.
