Asbestos was widely used in residential construction in Luxembourg until the 1980s, primarily due to its insulating and fire-resistant properties. It was not until 2001 that the sale and use of asbestos was definitively banned in the country. While technically effective, this material now poses a serious health risk when disturbed, such as during renovation or demolition work.
Where asbestos can be found in older homes
- Roofs and tiles
- Pipe and boiler insulation
- Wall and ceiling coverings
- Vinyl flooring
- Plasters and adhesives
Homes that are less than 25 years old are generally asbestos-free, but in older properties – especially those built before the 2000s – the risk is real.
Why is asbestos dangerous?
Even occasional exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious illnesses, including:
- Lung or pleural cancer
- Asbestosis (lung fibrosis)
- Pleural plaques
These conditions may develop even decades after exposure.
What to do before buying or renovating
- check for the presence of asbestos
Before starting any renovation work, it is essential to have an analysis carried out by a specialized laboratory. The cost for a complete inspection ranges from 2,000 to 10,000 euros, depending on where asbestos is suspected. If asbestos is found, its removal must always be entrusted to certified companies. Costs can be very high, especially if the material is present in multiple areas of the house. Removal expenses may reach 30,000 or even 50,000 euros. - do not disturb the asbestos
If asbestos is present but in good condition and does not need to be touched, a safe option is to leave it intact. However, this prevents any renovation work from being carried out. - obligations for construction companies
Renovation companies are required to follow strict safety procedures and inform property owners about the need for a detailed analysis by certified bodies. - legal and financial risks
Failure to carry out proper checks may lead to the suspension of work for several months and heavy administrative fines imposed by the Inspection du travail et des mines (ITM), which can reach tens of thousands of euros.
Practical advice for those buying a second-hand home
- Find out the year of construction and any previous renovations.
- Ask the seller whether any asbestos analysis has already been carried out.
- In case of doubt, consider the inspection cost as an investment in your and your family’s safety.
- Remember that the presence of asbestos may affect the property’s value and future maintenance or renovation costs.
Buying an older home in Luxembourg requires particular attention to the possible presence of asbestos, especially if renovation work is planned. Prevention and proper checks are essential to avoid not only health risks, but also legal and financial consequences.