The short answer
Textured coatings applied before 2000 may contain a small amount of white asbestos. Many do not. Only a lab test can tell.
Is it dangerous?
In good condition and painted, the risk is low. Sanding, scraping, drilling or steaming without controls can release fibres.
Your options
Leave it and paint it, overboard with plasterboard, skim over it without sanding, or have it removed with wet methods by trained operatives.
Before you start work
Test before fitting downlights, moving walls or stripping ceilings.
This guide is general information. Every building is different, so ask us before you start work.
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More guides
What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?A plain-English guide to asbestos, the main types and why breathing in the fibres causes disease.Where Asbestos Is Found in HomesThe most common places asbestos turns up in UK houses built before 2000, from garage roofs to boiler cupboards.Management vs Refurbishment and Demolition SurveysThe two types of asbestos survey under HSG264, what each one involves and which one you need.The Duty to Manage Asbestos ExplainedWhat Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 means for owners, landlords and managers of non-domestic buildings.