How Much Does it Cost to Remove Asbestos?

Understanding Asbestos Removal Costs

The cost of asbestos removal depends on several factors, primarily the type of asbestos-containing product and the complexity of the removal method. The simplest way to explain this is:

• Higher risk of exposure: The more hazardous the asbestos product and removal process, the more complex and costly the procedures involved.

Factors Influencing Asbestos Removal Costs

1. Type of Asbestos-Containing Material (ACM)
   • Non-licensed works - for example Cement Products (e.g., garage roofs): Typically less hazardous and involve simpler removal methods. There are some products, like textured coating known as artex, that are categorized as non-licensed; however, the removal method is very similar to licensed products.
   • Licensed asbestos removal methods - High-Risk ACMs (e.g., insulation boards, sprayed coatings): These present significant health risks and require advanced preparation, including air-tight enclosures, negative pressure systems, and specialized decontamination units. These measures ensure maximum safety and compliance with strict HSE regulations.

   Non-licensed  projects are:

   • Less hazardous.
   • Easier to manage.
   • More cost-effective.

   Licensed projects require:

   • Extensive preparation and planning.
   • Specialized equipment and protective gear.
   • Compliance with HSE notifications and strict safety standards.
   • High levels of expertise and documentation.
2. Complexity of the Removal Process
   • Non-Licensed Work: Includes tasks such as removing garage roofs or asbestos cement products. These jobs involve minimal exposure risks and simpler handling. Removal of asbestos inside the house can be categorized as non-licensed but often requires building air-tight enclosures and negative pressure units that filter air, creating conditions where air travels into the enclosure and then into the negative pressure unit. This way, dust particles have lower chances of spreading into other areas of the property. Non-licensed companies often lack the experience and equipment necessary to handle indoor work effectively.
   • Licensed Asbestos Removal: High-risk ACMs require extensive preparation, on average £80,000 worth of specialized equipment, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Licensed work often involves:
     • Two-week notifications to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive).
     • Comprehensive documentation and administrative work.
     • Significant site preparation and advanced protective measures.
     • Building full enclosures under negative pressure.
     • Building airlocks and baglocks for safe entrance and waste removal from the enclosure.
     • Decontamination unit - a shower unit connected to water, power, and a waste water manhole.
     • Four-stage clearance certification of completion carried out by an independent UKAS analytical company.
     • Even the smallest and easiest jobs require at least three people: an operative, supervisor, and analyst.
3. Regulatory Compliance
   • All removal methods must follow the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. However, at Blue A, we often exceed these standards to ensure the utmost safety, as not all situations are the same. With over 100,000 different products in endless circumstances, after more than a decade of trading and completion of over 11,000 projects, it’s becoming harder and harder to surprise us.
4. Additional Costs to Consider
   • Disposal of asbestos waste by licensed carriers in a licensed landfill is extremely expensive. Our prices always include waste disposal.
   • Post-removal air monitoring and clearance testing.
   • Repairs or reinstatement after removal. Our company has a reinstatement team, and we can complete nearly all reinstatement works, anywhere from roof replacement to new ceilings or plastering.
5. Example Costs for Asbestos Removal

Below are some typical prices for asbestos removal services provided by Blue A: