Asbestos was once a popular material for insulation and fireproofing, but its use has been largely discontinued due to the health risks it poses. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious respiratory problems, including lung cancer. As a result, many homeowners are now opting to have asbestos removed from their homes by a professional company.
While the cost of removal can be significant, it is typically far less than the cost of treating an asbestos-related illness. In addition, many companies offer discounts for those who have their homes inspected and found to contain asbestos. As a result, hiring an asbestos removal company is often the best way to protect your family from this dangerous material
Many buildings in the UK were constructed prior to asbestos being banned. As a result, asbestos removal is in high demand. Here are some tips for starting a company that removes asbestos.
Staring a asbestos removal company in the UK
When asbestos was discovered to be harmful to people’s health, it became a common building material. Since 1985, the most dangerous types of asbestos have been banned, and in 1999, they were completely banned.
Many older buildings require removal, so it’s in high demand today. You can take advantage of this demand and launch your own business in this field as a trained tradesperson.
Having trouble getting started? Take the next step in your career by learning how to start an asbestos removal company with this guide.
The qualifications you’ll need to start before you start
Before you begin asbestos removal, you must have the right qualifications.
You can prove to potential customers that you have the necessary skills, knowledge, and understanding with either of the following qualifications:
An asbestos removal operative apprenticeship approved by the UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA)
Asbestos removal licenses are also required. According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), this is an official document. Hazardous materials should be handled and disposed of safely due to their inherent dangers. An assessment visit by a qualified professional is the first step in the process.
Then you can begin looking for work without worrying about any more paperwork once you’ve paid for the license. The license must be renewed four months before it expires, so keep that in mind.
Getting started requires a full inventory of tools. In order to provide a safe and professional service, this is crucial.
The following tools are essential for asbestos removal:
- Cloth tape
- Scraper blades
- Polythene bags
- Correx sheets
- A respiratory mask and gloves
- Thick protective clothing
- Adhesive and sealant Power tools
Make sure you invest in high-quality personal protective equipment given the health hazards involved in this field. Wearing protective overalls, gloves, and respiratory masks are all part of this. Make sure you stay safe, as well as ensuring that customers aren’t exposed to dust. When removing debris, try to limit the number of fragments that fall.
Important skills to have
You’ll face challenges both on the job and running your business as a self-employed person. In order to succeed in these scenarios, you’ll need a wide range of skills. The following qualities are essential:
- To protect yourself and the client from exposure, you need a solid understanding of health and safety
- In order to spot material and manage precise removal without errors, you must pay attention to detail
- Working safely with your employees requires teamwork skills
- Finances are essential
- Having some knowledge of building and construction is essential for navigating attics and gutters
- Customer service and building relationships with clients require interpersonal skills
Pricing
Local competitors will need to be considered when setting your rates. In order to make a profit, you don’t want to set your prices too high and lose potential customers to your competitors.
You should always reflect the technical nature of licensed asbestos removal in your pricing. For a general idea of what to charge, check out our asbestos cost guide here.
Licensing
In the United Kingdom, asbestos is a regulated substance. Anyone who wishes to work with asbestos must obtain a license from the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The process of obtaining a license is not difficult, but it does require the completion of an accredited training course. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but it is typically around £300-£400.
Once you have completed the course, you will need to pass an examination in order to receive your license. Once you have your license, you will be able to work with asbestos in a safe and legal manner.
Insurance
It is absolutely essential to have insurance when working in a hazardous environment like this. You should purchase the following types:
Public liability insurance – This will cover you if your work damages a customer’s property. This is especially important if you’re working on historic buildings.
Professional indemnity insurance – Should a customer be dissatisfied with your work; you will be covered against any compensation or legal fees.
Employers’ liability insurance – It is a legal requirement for employers to cover their employees. Working at height when removing asbestos can be dangerous, so this is also important.
Directors’ insurance – This will protect you against most claims.
How do I grow an asbestos removal company?
Hiring more staff
Growing your business means you’ll likely have to handle more work and complex projects. In order to accomplish all of these tasks safely and efficiently, you will need to hire employees. However, hiring is a process that needs to be handled with care. Be sure the person you are looking to hire has all the necessary skills and experience and a proven track record.
To stay on the right side of the law, you should also make sure they have an HSE license. An apprentice could also serve as an extra pair of hands. In addition to being cheaper, this is also a great opportunity to pass on all your knowledge and skills.
Using marketing to get you more work
Growing your business and building your reputation is easy with digital marketing. Be sure to take advantage of social media as well. Providing customers with before and after shots is always well received and gives them a good idea of what you can do. Don’t forget to use the right platform. Print marketing can also be used for local areas along with digital marketing.
Flyers can be distributed door-to-door in surrounding neighbourhoods to homeowners, while ads can be placed in local papers for businesses, while business cards can be distributed to potential clients. Including some case studies will make these even more effective.
Construction companies and local builders are also good to target as these are the first people to notice that there is asbestos on site which requires removal but professionals.
Arrange finance
As you grow so do the bills, you will need new equipment like vehicles as well as paying the wages, this all will take its toll on the cashflow of the business. The are a number of financial products that are aimed at the asbestos removal industry. If you are starting up an asbestos removal company or just looking for finance to expand there are financial products that can help your business grow.
Seasoned professional with a strong passion for the world of business finance. With over twenty years of dedicated experience in the field, my journey into the world of business finance began with a relentless curiosity for understanding the intricate workings of financial systems.