The Duty to Manage Asbestos in Kidlington
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012), all commercial property owners and landlords in Kidlington have a legal duty to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on their premises. This includes the many asbestos cement roofs still found across Oxfordshire’s industrial estates like Langford Lane and Oxford Road, agricultural buildings near Woodstock Road, and older commercial properties throughout Kidlington’s town centre. Failure to properly manage ACMs can result in unlimited fines and imprisonment, so it’s critical to have a professional asbestos survey conducted by licensed specialists like National Coating Specialists before undertaking any roof works.
Where Asbestos Cement Roofs Are Found in Kidlington
Kidlington’s asbestos cement roofs are predominantly found in three key areas: the industrial and warehouse units along Langford Lane and Oxford Road estates; the agricultural buildings and farm storage facilities near Woodstock Road and Bicester Road; and older commercial properties in Kidlington’s town centre, particularly those built before 1999 when asbestos was fully banned. We’ve surveyed numerous properties in these areas, including retail units on High Street, the former Jacobs factory site, and several farm buildings near Thrupp Lane. The distinctive corrugated asbestos cement roofing panels were widely used due to their durability and fire resistance properties.
What Asbestos Roof Encapsulation Involves
Encapsulation is a HSE-approved method of sealing asbestos cement roofs to prevent fibre release, involving thorough cleaning followed by application of a high-performance protective coating system. Our process begins with a detailed asbestos survey to assess the roof’s condition, followed by careful surface preparation using controlled methods that don’t disturb the asbestos. We then apply multiple layers of specially formulated coatings that bond permanently to the asbestos cement, creating a weatherproof barrier that eliminates the need for costly removal. This approach is particularly effective for Kidlington’s industrial and agricultural buildings where roof integrity is still good but asbestos management is required.
When Removal Is the Necessary Solution
While encapsulation is often the best approach, there are circumstances where full asbestos roof removal is necessary in Kidlington. This includes roofs that are severely damaged or degraded beyond repair, buildings undergoing complete demolition or major structural changes, and situations where future maintenance work would likely disturb the asbestos. We’ve encountered several such cases at older farm buildings near Hampton Poyle and industrial units on Gosford Lane where the roof sheets had become brittle and unsafe. Our survey will always advise removal when it’s the only compliant solution, coordinating with licensed removal contractors to ensure full regulatory compliance.
Our Survey-Led Process for Kidlington Properties
Every project begins with a comprehensive asbestos survey conducted by our licensed surveyors who are familiar with Kidlington’s building stock. We examine the roof’s construction type, current condition, asbestos content (through sampling if required), and assess all risk factors specific to your property’s location and use. This survey forms the basis of our recommendations – whether encapsulation is suitable, what coating system would perform best, and any preparatory work needed. For Kidlington’s older properties, we pay particular attention to fragile roof areas, previous repair attempts, and potential hidden asbestos in flashings or insulation.
Why a Professional Survey Comes First
Attempting to assess or work on an asbestos cement roof without a proper survey is both illegal and extremely dangerous. Our Kidlington surveys provide the legally required asbestos register and management plan, identifying all ACMs and their condition. This documentation is essential for compliance with CAR 2012 and protects both building owners and occupants. We’ve encountered too many cases in Oxfordshire where well-meaning but uninformed attempts at roof repair or maintenance have led to uncontrolled asbestos exposure and subsequent enforcement action by the HSE.
- Licensed asbestos surveyors with specific Kidlington experience
- HSE-compliant asbestos management plans tailored to your roof
- Detailed condition reports with photographic evidence
- Clear recommendations on encapsulation suitability
- Ongoing support for your asbestos management duties
For more details on our asbestos roof encapsulation services, visit our encapsulation services page, or to book your essential asbestos survey, use our free quote form.
