David Broadhurst – (BSc(Hons), CertEd, COCA), Managing Director, AIB Solutions
https://www.linkedin.com/in/davebroadhurst/
January 23, 2026
One of the most common questions property owners ask is: how long does asbestos removal actually take?
The answer depends on several factors, including the type of asbestos, its location, the risk level, and whether the work must be carried out by a licensed contractor.
This guide explains typical asbestos removal timescales in the UK, what affects them, and how to avoid delays.
As a general guide:
All asbestos removal must follow strict UK safety regulations, particularly for licensed asbestos removal:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestosremoval
Several key factors influence the timescale.
Different asbestos-containing materials behave very differently when disturbed.
These almost always require licensed removal and strict controls:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestos-insulating-board-aib-removal
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestos-pipe-lagging-removal-aib-solutions
Typical duration: 2–5 days, sometimes longer.
These may be removed more quickly if intact and accessible:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestos-cement-products-removal-disposal
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestos-floor-tile-removal-disposal
Typical duration: a few hours to 1 day.
Removal takes longer when asbestos is:
Garage roofs, loft spaces, plant rooms, and ceiling voids often increase setup and removal time.
Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, some work must be carried out by HSE-licensed contractors.
HSE guidance on asbestos removal licensing:
👉 https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/licensing
Licensed work requires:
This process adds time but is legally required for safety.
Before removal can begin, asbestos must be identified and assessed.
A professional asbestos survey confirms:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestossurveys
In some cases, asbestos testing and laboratory analysis is needed first:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestostesting
Survey and testing timescales typically range from 1–3 days, depending on urgency.
For licensed asbestos removal, work is not complete until a four-stage clearance process is passed.
This includes:
Only once clearance is achieved can the area be reoccupied.
AIB provides specialist domestic asbestos removal for homeowners and landlords:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/asbestosremoval-domestic
Timescales are often longer due to:
Support for homeowners and private landlords is available here:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/homeowners-private-landlords
Larger buildings typically require:
Commercial services:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/commercial-asbestos-removal
Industrial services:
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/industrial-asbestos-services
Yes — when planned properly.
The biggest delays usually come from:
To keep your project on track:
This approach is safer, faster, and often more cost-effective.
Asbestos removal can take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on:
While timelines vary, cutting corners is never an option. Proper planning and professional removal protect health, ensure compliance, and prevent costly delays.
👉 View our accreditations and compliance credentials
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/accreditationscertificates
👉 Read reviews from property owners and landlords
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/our-reviews
👉 Speak to AIB’s asbestos specialists today
https://www.aib-asbestosremoval.co.uk/contactus
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Respectful & Mindful - Our goal is not only to remove hazardous materials but to foster a safer, healthier environment through respectful and mindful practices.
Reliable & Safe - Safety is at the core of what we do - always prioritising the health and safety of our clients, employees, the public and the environment.
Professional & Quality - We strive to keep exceeding expectations every day, with every client we work with, always working above standards and to the highest quality.
From our centrally based location in Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire; we have helped thousands of customers throughout the UK including Manchester to solve their asbestos removal and management problems with our fast, efficient and professional service since 2003.
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