Asbestos was mainly used in construction from 1950’s right through to the late 1980’s before its use was strictly prohibited in November 1999.

It is estimated that 3,500- 4,000 asbestos related deaths occur each year and this figure is projected to rise to 10,000 by the end of this decade.

Scotia’s survey figures indicate that almost 20% of the roofline installations we carry out for homeowners contain asbestos, which will be dealt with in the following way.

Once you have placed an order with us one of our surveyor’s will visit to measure all the materials required for your installation as well as taking detailed notes for the installers as to how he plans to fit the products. He will take a sample of any material he suspects may be asbestos which we will then supply to a specialist laboratory to confirm:

1. If asbestos is present

2. If asbestos is detected we then establish whether it is asbestos cement or asbestos insulation board.

If no asbestos is present the installation will progress as normal.
Where asbestos is detected we will write confirming the type of asbestos detected, along with a copy of the laboratory’s report and detail any surcharges that may apply.

In the case of asbestos cement we need to remove the product carefully so that the dispersal of asbestos fibre is kept to an absolute minimum. Our installers will wear protective suits and facemasks during the installation and the removed material will be bagged and sealed in order that it can be disposed of at an approved landfill site.

Where asbestos insulation board is detected the asbestos fibres are loosely compacted and the chance of dispersal is much greater. Asbestos insulation board therefore requires a specialist contractor approved by the H.S.E. (Health and Safety Executive) to remove, transport and dispose of the material.