Asbestos remains one of the most common hazardous materials found in older buildings across Liverpool and the North West. While many people assume all asbestos work requires a licensed contractor, this is not always the case. In fact, a large proportion of asbestos-related work falls under Non-Licensed Works (NLW) or Notifiable Non-Licensed Works (NNLW).
Understanding the difference is essential for homeowners, landlords, and businesses to remain legally compliant while managing asbestos safely.
Understanding Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal
Non-Licensed Works (NLW) refer to asbestos removal tasks involving lower-risk asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that are less likely to release fibres if handled correctly. These works do not require an HSE-licensed asbestos contractor but must still be carried out by trained professionals following strict safety procedures.
Examples of materials commonly classed as NLW include:
- Asbestos cement sheets
- Roof panels and garage roofs
- Gutters and downpipes
- Certain floor tiles and bitumen adhesives
Although these materials are considered lower risk, disturbing them without proper controls can still pose serious health risks.
What Are Notifiable Non-Licensed Works (NNLW)?
Notifiable Non-Licensed Works are a sub-category of NLW. These works involve materials that are still non-licensed but require notification to the HSE before work begins.
NNLW may apply when:
- The asbestos material is degraded or damaged
- Removal work is more extensive
- There is a higher likelihood of fibre release
NNLW requires:
- HSE notification before work starts
- Medical surveillance for workers
- Record keeping and documentation
Failure to comply can result in enforcement action or fines.
Who Is Responsible for Compliance?
In Liverpool and across the North West, the duty holder (usually the property owner, landlord, or managing agent) is legally responsible for ensuring asbestos is managed correctly. This includes:
- Identifying asbestos-containing materials
- Ensuring appropriate surveys are carried out
- Appointing competent professionals for NLW or NNLW
DIY asbestos removal is strongly discouraged and, in many cases, illegal.
When Is Licensed Asbestos Removal Required?
Higher-risk materials such as:
- Pipe insulation
- Loose fill insulation
- Asbestos insulation board (AIB)
usually require licensed asbestos removal and cannot be undertaken as NLW or NNLW. If there is any uncertainty, professional advice should always be sought.
Non-Licensed Asbestos Removal in Liverpool & the North West
Many properties across Liverpool, Merseyside, Manchester, and Lancashire were built during peak asbestos use. Non-licensed asbestos removal is therefore a common requirement during refurbishment, maintenance, and demolition work.
Atlas Asbestos provides compliant NLW and NNLW asbestos removal services across the North West, ensuring work is carried out safely, responsibly, and in line with HSE regulations.
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