Asbestos Compensation Claims

Updated June 2026

Asbestos-related illness continues to occur in England and Wales and asbestos claims for compensation are there to help you if you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness which can be linked to employer negligence. Claims may often be made if the exposure happened many years ago and still be possible even if the employer no longer exists.

Although asbestos use was first banned in 1985 and then fully banned in 1999, it still remains in thousands of older buildings which means workers remain at risk when refurbishing, repairing, or demolishing structures built before the ban. If you have developed an asbestos‑related condition because of your job, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation.

Is Asbestos‑Related Illness Still Common in the UK?

Asbestos‑related disease remains one of the most persistent occupational health problems. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) continues to report around 5,000 asbestos‑related deaths each year, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The HSE states that asbestos-related illness is caused by “tiny, invisible fibres that can be breathed in or rest on your clothes”. These illnesses often develop decades after exposure, which means workers exposed in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s are only now receiving diagnoses.

Even today, tradespeople and maintenance workers may come across asbestos more often than many realise. Any building constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, pipe lagging, floor tiles, roofing materials, and textured coatings. So, if these materials are disturbed, microscopic fibres become airborne and can be inhaled.

Are Workers Still Exposed to Asbestos During Refurbishment?

Yes. Despite strict regulations, exposure still happens, typically because asbestos was not identified, was poorly managed, or was disturbed accidentally. Workers most at risk include:

• Construction workers: especially those involved in refurbishment, demolition, or structural repairs.
• Electricians: drilling into walls or ceilings that contain asbestos insulation.
• Plumbers: removing old pipe lagging or accessing boiler rooms.
• Joiners and carpenters: cutting or sanding asbestos‑containing boards.
• Maintenance staff: working in older schools, hospitals, and council buildings.

Real‑World Scenarios

Replacement of a Garage Roof

This involves an incident in Altrincham, outside Manchester, during work replacing old cement roof sheets on a garage. The HSE investigated after a local resident alerted them to his concerns about debris from the work which had fallen into his garden. An analysis of the waste showed chrysotile asbestos, which was not only spread around the garden, but also being stored in front of the garage being refurbished.

School Caretaker Exposure

A caretaker working in a school which had been built in the 1960s, was regularly drilling into the walks to hang noticeboards and repair fixtures. But he never received any training on asbestos-awareness and risks. Unfortunately, some years later he was diagnosed with asbestosis and an investigation found asbestos insulation behind the walls he had worked on long ago.

These situations can still occur because asbestos remains in some older buildings and employers sometimes fail to follow safety rules.

Main Signs and Symptoms of Asbestos‑Related Illness

Asbestos‑related conditions develop slowly. Symptoms may appear 10–40 years after exposure. According to the NHS, you should seek medical advice immediately if you notice:

• Breathlessness
• Persistent cough
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Pain in your chest or shoulder
• Unexplained weight loss
• Clubbing of fingers

What To Do Next if You Want To Make a Personal Injury Claim

If you believe your illness was caused by asbestos exposure at work, here are your next steps:

1. Get a Medical Diagnosis

Your GP will refer you for scans and specialist assessment for an asbestos-related illness. A confirmed diagnosis is essential for any asbestos claim.

2. Gather Evidence of Exposure

Useful evidence typically includes:

• Employment records
• Witness statements from colleagues
• Asbestos surveys from your workplace
• Health and Safety Executive reports
• Photographs of asbestos‑containing materials
• Training records (or lack of them)

Even if your employer has closed down, you can still claim. Your solicitor can help to trace insurers from the time of exposure.

3. Speak to a Specialist Solicitor

Asbestos claims are complex, and time limits apply. A solicitor experienced in asbestos litigation can:

• Identify when and where exposure occurred
• Trace the correct insurer
• Arrange medical evidence
• Calculate your compensation
• Handle the claim on a No Win No Fee basis

We partner with experienced personal injury solicitors who offer a free, initial consultation to assess whether your claim is valid.

4. Claim on Behalf of a Loved One

If a family member has passed away from an asbestos‑related illness, you may still be able to bring a claim. Dependants can recover compensation for financial losses, funeral expenses, and the emotional impact of the death.

Why Compensation Matters

Asbestos‑related illnesses often require long‑term treatment, time off work, and may involve significant lifestyle changes. Therefore, compensation can help cover:

• Loss of earnings
• Private medical treatment
• Travel costs
• Home adaptations
• Care and support
• Pain and suffering

It’s also important to keep in mind that a successful claim can also provide financial security for your family.

FAQs: How to Make a Claim for an Asbestos-Related Illness

What jobs are most at risk of asbestos exposure?

Workers in construction, shipbuilding, engineering, maintenance, and heavy industry face the highest risk. Anyone refurbishing buildings built before 2000 may encounter asbestos.

Can I claim if I was exposed decades ago?

Yes. Asbestos illnesses take years to develop, so it’s not unusual to claim even if exposure happened in the 1970s, 80s, or 90s.

What if my employer no longer exists?

You can still claim. Solicitors can trace the insurer responsible at the time of exposure.

Do I need to know exactly when I was exposed?

Not always. May have been repeatedly exposed across different sites. A solicitor can help identify likely exposure periods.

How long do asbestos claims take?

A straightforward claim may settle within months. More complex cases, especially those involving mesothelioma, can be often prioritised and resolved quickly.

Can I claim if I smoked?

Yes. Smoking does not prevent you from claiming for asbestos‑related illness.

If you believe your illness is linked to workplace asbestos exposure, taking action can help you plan for the road ahead.

Start Your Claim: Free Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness and suspect it may be due to asbestos exposure at work, we can help as we partner with personal injury solicitors who are experienced in work related claims for compensation.

Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit our Contact Page.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.