Why You Should Never Remove Asbestos Yourself
If you live in the Westcountry — from Exeter to Plymouth, Taunton, or anywhere in between — chances are your home or workplace might contain asbestos. It was once used widely in buildings for insulation and fireproofing, especially before the year 2000.
When people discover asbestos, their first thought is often, “I’ll just get rid of it myself.” But here’s the truth: removing asbestos yourself can be incredibly dangerous — not just for you, but for anyone nearby.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral that was mixed into many common building materials — including artex ceilings, floor tiles, insulation boards, and garage roofs. It’s strong, heat-resistant, and long-lasting, which made it popular in construction for decades. Unfortunately, it’s also toxic when disturbed.
When asbestos materials are cut, broken, or drilled, they release tiny fibres into the air. These invisible fibres can be inhaled and cause serious diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
The Hidden Risks of DIY Asbestos Removal
You can’t see or smell asbestos fibres — and a small job can release thousands of them into the air. Even cleaning up afterwards can make things worse. Once asbestos dust settles, it can easily be disturbed again, spreading contamination throughout your home or workplace.
Trying to remove asbestos yourself can also lead to:
- Health risks from fibre exposure
- Legal problems, since some asbestos types must only be removed by licensed contractors
- Disposal issues, as asbestos waste must go to a licensed facility
Why Choose Licensed Asbestos Professionals
At Westcountry Asbestos Removal, we’re fully trained, licensed, and insured to handle asbestos safely. Our experienced team works across Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset, offering:
- Safe asbestos removal and disposal
- Asbestos surveys and sampling
- Garage roof removal and replacement
- Friendly, family-run service you can trust
We follow all Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations to ensure your property is safe, your family or employees are protected, and the work is done properly from start to finish.
Protecting Your Home and Your Health
When it comes to asbestos, it’s not worth taking risks. Professional asbestos removal means the job is done safely, legally, and responsibly — giving you complete peace of mind.
Need advice or a free quote?
Contact Westcountry Asbestos Removal today — your local, family-run asbestos specialists for Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset.
📞 Call us: 01392 979250 / 07777 770313
📧 Email: info@westcountryasbestos.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.westcountryasbestos.co.uk