How we identify a potential concern
We can't confirm whether a material contains asbestos just by looking at it, and we won't claim otherwise. Certain tile styles, sizes and the presence of black bitumen adhesive from properties of a certain age raise our suspicion, at which point we stop and recommend the material be properly assessed rather than guessing based on appearance alone.
What we will not do
- We will not sand, drill, lift, cut or break out any material we suspect may contain asbestos.
- We will not proceed with removal work ourselves in suspected cases, regardless of how straightforward it might otherwise look.
- We will not give an opinion on whether a material 'is probably fine' — that determination needs a competent surveyor and, where relevant, laboratory testing.
What we recommend instead
Our normal approach where suspect tiles or adhesive are found intact and in good condition is to leave them undisturbed and overboard on top with plywood or a suitable levelling layer, provided that's appropriate for the new floor finish. If tiles are damaged, loose or need to come up, we recommend a competent asbestos surveyor assess and, if needed, arrange appropriately licensed removal before any flooring work continues.
Why this matters, in plain terms
Disturbing asbestos-containing material can release fibres into the air, which is a genuine health risk if inhaled. This isn't a case where a cautious approach is overkill — it's the only responsible way to handle a material we can't identify by eye, and it's why we won't attempt removal or invasive prep work over anything suspect.
Fife reality: mid-century terraces and ex-mining housing
We come across suspect tiles most often in mid-20th century housing, including some ex-mining village properties in KY4 and KY5 and older sections of Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline that haven't had a full floor renewal since. It's common enough that we'd rather flag it early in a quote conversation than have it come as a surprise once old flooring is lifted.