Asbestos in my home — who do I contact?
When you suspect asbestos in your home (corrugated sheets, old floor tiles, pre-1994 insulation): (1) DO NOT remove it yourself — health hazard and criminal (fine €5,000–20,000 for private removal). (2) SC-540 licensed asbestos-inventory firm does visual + material analysis (~€500–1,500). Find firms via ascert.nl. (3) SC-530 licensed asbestos-removal firm removes under strict protocols (~€2,000–10,000+ depending on scope). (4) Demolition notice to municipal Environment Service — required for removal >35m² or where neighbour nuisance could arise. (5) GGD Gezond Wonen 020-555 5911 for health advice on exposure. Urgent: damaged suspect material: open windows, don't touch, seal area, call asbestos firm immediately.
Step by step
- 1Don't touch, photographPhotograph from a safe distance. Keep evidence of location and material used. Seal the room, keep children/pets away.
- 2Hire SC-540 inventory firmFirm does visual + material analysis, provides report with asbestos type + risk class. Cost ~€500–1,500. Search via ascert.nl.
- 3Demolition notice to cityRequired for >35m² removal or where neighbours could be affected. Via Omgevingsloket.nl, min. 4 weeks in advance, city can set conditions.
- 4Have SC-530 firm do removalLicensed remover works in protective suit, with extraction and final clearance measurement. Variable cost: ~€2,000–10,000+ depending on risk class and area.
- 5GGD for health concernsOn suspected exposure: call GGD 020-555 5911. They advise on screening and possible lung-function test for long-term exposure.
All contacts
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove a small piece of asbestos myself?
Since 2017: no. Private individuals may not remove asbestos themselves, regardless of quantity. Fine €5,000–20,000 plus obligation for professional re-removal — often more expensive than hiring a licensed firm directly.
How do I know if my house contains asbestos?
Pre-1994 houses have a high chance of asbestos (corrugated roof, floor tiles, insulation behind radiators, boiler room). When in doubt: SC-540 inventory. Not all “asbestos-like” materials are actually asbestos — lab test is decisive.
How much does complete asbestos removal cost?
SC-540 inventory: €500–1,500. SC-530 removal: €2,000–10,000+ depending on risk class (1=low, 3=high) and area. Some municipalities subsidise asbestos roofs (check per municipality).
What if my landlord refuses to remove asbestos?
Landlord is legally required to provide a safe home. Non-action: report to Huurteam Amsterdam (020-523 0150), use Bij Wie? for unresponsive landlords for the right route, possibly Huurcommissie + administrative court.
Can I remove asbestos myself?
Bonded asbestos in your home (max 35m²): with PPE + sealed packaging, free disposal via city. Non-bonded or > 35m²: certified firm only (Ascert mark). Forbidden for rented properties — always certified firm.
What if the landlord conceals asbestos?
Request written asbestos inventory report (mandatory for rental). No report: report to Environmental Authority NZKG + Huurteam. On exposure: GGD lung test + claim via personal-injury lawyer.
Sources
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