We were recently called out for a garage roof replacement in South London where our client owned a single garage unit positioned in the middle of a long row of “battery garages” – a style of communal storage often found behind housing estates and accessed via shared driveways or alleyways.
The unit had an original asbestos cement roof that had begun to deteriorate with age. Although still functional, the sheets had developed visible cracks, and the client was concerned about safety and liability, especially given the proximity to other garages and public foot traffic nearby.
Understanding the Setup
These types of garage rows, typically made of concrete panels with flat or sloped asbestos cement roofs, present a unique set of challenges. Access to individual units is limited by their positioning, and any work must be carried out without disturbing neighbouring structures – especially when the roofs are conjoined or overlap slightly at the edges.
In this case, the client’s unit was the fifth in a block of ten, surrounded on both sides by other privately-owned garages. None of the adjacent owners were carrying out work, so our task was to isolate and remove only the roof over our client’s unit, without affecting those on either side.
Careful, Contained Removal
After inspecting the site, we created a plan for confined access via the shared front driveway. We set up cordons to restrict movement around the work zone and laid protective sheeting inside the garage to shield the contents. The customer had cleared the bulk of stored items beforehand, making for a smooth setup.
Working from portable podium steps and internal ladders, we carefully removed each asbestos sheet after first dampening it to suppress fibre release. The edges of the adjoining roofs were protected with temporary flashings to ensure we didn’t disturb or damage the neighbouring structures.
Each panel transported to a licensed disposal facility. All team members worked in full protective equipment, following HSE regulations to the letter.
Leaving It Roof-Ready
In this case, the client had a contractor scheduled to install a new roof later in the week, so our job was strictly focused on safe asbestos removal and preparing the unit for re-roofing. Once the sheets were removed, we vacuumed all exposed surfaces and conducted a thorough clean of the work area, including shared access points and the garage forecourt.
We issued a full consignment note and photographic report, giving the client peace of mind and all the documentation needed for their records.
Projects in Shared Garage Rows
When working on battery garages, attention to detail and boundary control are key. Even a minor oversight can lead to neighbour disputes or damage to adjoining roofs. Our approach ensures that your garage is made safe without affecting anyone else’s.
Got a Mid-Row Garage with an Asbestos Roof?
We specialise in precise, compliant asbestos removal for battery garages across London and beyond.
Call Excel Roofing & Asbestos on 0800 0996 558
Email: info@excel-asbestos.com
Safe removal, respectful of your neighbours. Professional to the last detail.
