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Asbestos in the common parts of flats: a short guide for managing agents

In a block of flats, the duty to manage asbestos applies to the common parts. Inside individual flats is not covered by the duty to manage, although landlords still have general duties there.

What counts as the common parts

  • Entrance halls, foyers, corridors and stairs
  • Lift shafts and lift motor rooms
  • Risers and service cupboards
  • Boiler and plant rooms
  • Roof spaces
  • Bin stores, garages and outbuildings

Who holds the duty

The dutyholder is whoever is responsible for maintaining or repairing the common parts, often the freeholder or a residents’ management company. A managing agent can carry out the work for them, but HSE is clear that the agent cannot take the duty on.

Keeping a portfolio in step

Running every block on one yearly re-inspection cycle keeps dates simple and makes it easier to show the duty is being met. Each block gets its own updated register with the changes listed first.

Managing several sites? Call 020 3386 1854 and we will price the portfolio from your registers.

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