decorative textured coating- may contain asbestos?

[user1467297746]

Just got our survey ( from hell )

quite a few surprises- woodworm in the garage. damp in the building altho not visible. Lead pipe supplying water. needs to be rewired.

Chimneys need repointing/ rebuilding.

leaky roof ( says it has some rotten purlins ) - and ceilings covered in polystyrene on plaster and lattes =

also has a textured decorative coating which may contain asbestos?

what an earth is that?

I tried calling my surveyor but I think he's out inspecting because he hasnt answered!

Decorative textured coating that may contain asbestos usually means artex.

You can scrape a few bits off and have them tested if you want.

Not all Artex contains asbestos (it depends how old it is) and it is not considered dangerous unless you start scraping or sanding it off and releasing dust. Very often it is plastered over now which covers it up and prevents fibres from bring released.

If you want to remove it, and it contains asbestos, save up and get a licenced contractor in.

p.s.

When surveyor's have no idea (which is quite common) they throw in standard text

"the roof looks OK but I recommend you get a roof specialist in" "Can't see any actual drain problems but I recommend you get a drain expert in" "The electrical system might be safe but I recommend you can an electrical test done" "There is no sign of an ancient burial ground under the house but I recommend you consult an exorcist"

old artex had asbestos in it.
If you sand it and cause dust, then you have a problem.

The date the asbestos was put up is a good clue as to whether it has asbestos, they stopped adding asbestos in 70's? 80's? you would need to look it up.

Lead pipe - not urgent unless in soft water area.

Artex - most older places have this. As mentioned, fine if not disturbed or crumbling. You may want it covered at some point ( looks up and winces..)

Leaky roof is an issue and you need to get some quotes on cost. Polystyrene on ceiling is a danger in case of fire.

I think artex post 1984 should be asbestos free. As pps said you can take samples and send them to a lab for testing. Not particularly expensive, £40 ish for up to three samples. We are buying a property with what we thought was artex on the wall. DH looked up an asbestos removal firm and they quoted £1500 per 20m squared. My understanding is that surveyors mention everything to cover their asses and to make their report look very thorough.