Does an asbestos flue pipe in the loft need to be removed?
Anonymous user 01/03/2024 - 2.50 PM
I had a survey from British Gas recently, who were offering to fit free insulation in the loft.
I qualified for the free insulation, but the surveyor pointed out an asbestos flue pipe in the corner of the loft, and said that British Gas can't do any work there while it's still in place.
I've had a look at it myself, and it looks to be in perfect condition - I can't see any cracks or anything on the pipe (which consists of one angled and one straight section that appear from the wall and then disappear out through the roof).
I've looked around on the internet and it seems like removing it would be expensive, but also removing it might be less safe than leaving it in place.
In general, should these pipes always be removed? Do I need to get this taken care of urgently?
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
these flues are white asbestos used throughout the building trade in the seventy and are quite safe providing the are left alone, the same stuff that used to be on the end of the iron boards to lay your iron on. its generally mostly cement as long as its not disintegrating its no more dangerous than walking across the road. the main scare with asbestos is blue asbestos used mostly in ship building and construction for lagging pipes.
this is just an other workman being over cautious.
good luck Alex
It depends what type of asbestos it is. It is likely to be white (chrysotile) which is the least nasty type. If it is not in use it could be removed but it may be costly.
What about encapsulating it (boxing it in without disturbing it), if it is concealed then there is no risk to sub-contractors laying insulation?
If you need it taking out then get it sampled to determine if it firstly truly has asbestos content and secondly what type.
Remember many local authorities will dispose of small quantities of asbestos for free - worth checking this out if you are getting it removed - it would be cheeper.
Regards
Andrew @ Fibretechs
Asbestos Cement flue pipes do not have to be removed but you have a duty of care to manage it by ensuring no fibre release will endanger the occupants, visitors or contractors working on your home.
Asbestos Cement contains 10 -15% Chrysotile asbestos but if it's in very good condition, simply painting the exposed pipe it will seal in the fibres and make it safe (even for British Gas personnel).
Answered18 February 2026
8
Anonymous user
I would get it tested to see if it is and how much of a risk it is
