Only a lab test can tell you for sure. Your photo helps us send the right kit.
What is it?
Lagging is insulation wrapped round hot water and heating pipes, boilers and tanks to keep the heat in. Before the 1980s it often contained asbestos, sometimes a lot of it. It can be white, grey or cream, and it's often covered in paint, cloth or tape.
Why it's different
Old lagging is often soft and crumbly. Fibres come loose easily, even when it's only knocked or brushed against. That's why work on asbestos lagging has to be done by a licensed asbestos contractor, and why a home test kit isn't the right tool for it.
What to do
- Don't touch, cut, wrap, repair or move it.
- If it's damaged or crumbling, keep people and pets away from it.
- Don't sweep or vacuum up any debris.
- Send us a photo and we'll point you to the right person.
- Or contact a licensed asbestos surveyor or contractor directly.
If you rent your home, tell your landlord or letting agent too.
What happens next
A licensed professional can take a sample safely and tell you what it is. If it does contain asbestos, they'll advise whether it can be left, sealed, repaired or removed.
If you're worried you've breathed in asbestos fibres, talk to your GP.
