Housing Service: Asbestos Policy

Overview
This consultation is for Waltham Forest residents living in council-managed properties or social housing. We are seeking your feedback on the proposed Housing Asbestos Policy, which aims to ensure that asbestos in council-managed housing is managed safely to protect residents' health and wellbeing.

The Housing Asbestos Policy outlines:

  • How we identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in our properties.

  • The steps we take to prevent asbestos exposure and ensure residents’ safety.

  • The process for responding to asbestos-related concerns raised by residents.

What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials before it was banned due to its health risks. If asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they can release harmful fibres into the air, which, when inhaled, may cause serious lung conditions over time. Proper management is essential to prevent exposure.

For example: A resident carrying out DIY work may unknowingly disturb an asbestos-containing ceiling panel, releasing asbestos fibres. The Housing Asbestos Policy ensures that residents receive guidance on how to identify potential risks and that any asbestos-related concerns are promptly investigated and managed.

Overview
This consultation is for Waltham Forest residents living in council-managed properties or social housing. We are seeking your feedback on the proposed Housing Asbestos Policy, which aims to ensure that asbestos in council-managed housing is managed safely to protect residents' health and wellbeing.

The Housing Asbestos Policy outlines:

  • How we identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in our properties.

  • The steps we take to prevent asbestos exposure and ensure residents’ safety.

  • The process for responding to asbestos-related concerns raised by residents.

What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials before it was banned due to its health risks. If asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed, they can release harmful fibres into the air, which, when inhaled, may cause serious lung conditions over time. Proper management is essential to prevent exposure.

For example: A resident carrying out DIY work may unknowingly disturb an asbestos-containing ceiling panel, releasing asbestos fibres. The Housing Asbestos Policy ensures that residents receive guidance on how to identify potential risks and that any asbestos-related concerns are promptly investigated and managed.

  • Housing Service: Asbestos Policy Survey

    Why are we seeking your views? 
    This consultation aims to understand how the Housing Asbestos Policy will affect residents, particularly those in council-managed homes. We want to hear your thoughts on whether the policy is clear, meets your expectations, and if there are areas for improvement. Your feedback will help ensure that the policy is effective in managing asbestos safely within your community. 

    What do we hope to achieve? 
    Through this consultation, we aim to: 

    • Ensure that the Housing Asbestos Policy reflects the concerns and needs of residents. 

    • Identify areas of the policy that may require clarification or improvement. 

    • Gather feedback on how we can better support residents with asbestos-related concerns. 

    Your input will directly influence the final version of the Housing Asbestos Policy, ensuring it aligns with the experiences and needs of the community. 

    When completing the survey:

    • Please do not include any personal information in your answers - for example, name, address, phone number, or email.
    Take Survey