Removing Asbestos Cold Water Tank

[Pheo]

So, moving to unvented shortly. Currently have a large water tank in the loft, almost certainly asbestos cement based (1970s ex council).

HSE seems to indicate it is safe to remove myself providing I take suitable precautions, and break it up carefully in large pieces.

Anyone done this? any particular tips? Any warnings not to bother?

I do realise I could just leave it in the loft, but its taking up an awful lot of space, would be nice to be able to free it up so I can spread the storage about, so as not to block airflow in the loft.

[jules_s]

I think your problem will be breaking it up in the loft and not leaving any residue

[RedWhiteMonkey]

You may be able to do it yourself but that's one of those things I would pay a professional to do.

[Pheo]

Well thats what I was thinking.

HSE don't seem too worried though - just cover everything in polythene sheeting: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/guidance/a15.pdf

Wonder if it'll fit through the loft hatch in one. Got to have got up there some how, and either way it went in after the roof did! can drop the loft hatch if needed I think.

[IanMorewood]

Usual advice with asbestos is leave it well alone if you have no reason to mess with it.

http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/index.htm

[Chrisgr31]

I have one in my loft. Its unused and staying there!

[Gingerbread Man]

Removed a header tank not long ago. Poly sheet and wrapped it up many times. Gaffer tape. Popped down though loft hatch. I wouldn't break one up if it didn't fit though.

[Pheo]

Gingerbread Man said:

Removed a header tank not long ago. Poly sheet and wrapped it up many times. Gaffer tape. Popped down though loft hatch. I wouldn't break one up if it didn't fit though.

I'll measure it up and see if it fits. If it doesn't, I'll leave it there. Not worth the hassle breaking it up probably (I could always put stuff in it lol!

Cheers chaps!