Key facts
- Textured coatings applied before the mid-1980s are more likely to contain asbestos, though older stock was sometimes used later.
- Intact Artex left alone is generally low risk.
- Never sand, scrape or drill it until it has been tested.
Does my Artex contain asbestos?
You cannot tell by looking. The only way to know is to have a sample tested by an accredited laboratory. Our guide on how to tell if you have asbestos explains how safe sampling works.
When it becomes a problem
Intact Artex does not release fibres. The risk comes when it is damaged or disturbed, for example when you:
- sand or scrape it to redecorate,
- drill it to fit lights or fittings,
- knock down the ceiling during a renovation.
Your options
Leave it
If it is in good condition and you are not renovating, leaving it alone is often fine.
Cover it
The ceiling can be covered, for example by overboarding. This avoids disturbing the coating but means it stays in the building.
Remove it
Best before building work, or when the ceiling is damaged. The room is sealed off, the coating is removed using controlled methods and the waste is bagged and taken away.
How safe Artex removal works
- The coating is sampled and tested.
- The room is cleared and sealed with sheeting.
- The work is carried out with dust controlled and workers protected.
- Waste is wrapped, labelled and carried by a licensed carrier.
- The room is cleaned and you receive the paperwork.