To prevent the spread of harmful asbestos fibers, the municipality of Almere offers a temporary scheme for the replacement of asbestos-containing shed and garage roofs. Residents can have these roofs replaced for free. They are fully relieved of any burden. This initiative contributes to a healthier and safer living environment. The first works will start soon in Muziekwijk Noord.
Alderman Alexander Sprong: “The health of Almere residents is very important to us. Asbestos is harmful to health. Although it has not been allowed in construction for years, there is still approximately 33,000 m² of asbestos roofs present in older buildings in Almere. Asbestos roofs are the largest remaining source of asbestos fibers in the environment. Therefore, we find it important to remove all remaining asbestos roofs from Almere. We have already started with the residential roofs, and with this project, we are now also tackling the smaller roofs.”
Why is replacement necessary?
In various districts of Almere, asbestos-containing residential roofs have already been replaced, but many roofs of sheds and garages still contain asbestos. These asbestos roofs are old and are deteriorating. Due to aging, more and more asbestos fibers are released into the living environment. These asbestos fibers pose a health risk when inhaled. It is estimated that there are still about 1,000 small roofs with asbestos in Almere. To address this situation and enhance safety, the municipality finances and arranges the complete replacement of these roofs.
How can owners participate?
Although the replacement of an asbestos roof is the responsibility of the owner, the municipality is happy to support residents in this. In 2019, a scan was conducted to determine where the asbestos-containing shed roofs are likely located in Almere. Residents who presumably have an asbestos roof as a result of that scan will receive a notice with more information on how they can participate. All homeowners who still have an asbestos roof on their shed or garage can register for this scheme.
Asbestos-containing garage or shed roof remediation at no cost
The municipality is collaborating with the Almere contractor Haaxman Milieutechniek BV for this project. This company won the tender. If a resident participates, Haaxman Milieutechniek B.V. ensures that the asbestos-containing shed and garage roof is safely remediated and replaced with an equivalent new roof. Completely free of charge and without administrative burdens for the resident.
If a resident chooses not to participate, the asbestos roof will remain. This poses a health risk, as the asbestos sheets deteriorate due to their age; more and more asbestos fibers are released into the living environment. Residents who participate not only choose a safer roof and the free replacement of the roof but also contribute to a cleaner and healthier living environment. This project has a duration of up to two years (2025-2026) or until the budget is exhausted.