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RAAC Removal SERVICE
- James Cook
- Sep 24
- 4 min read
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is one of the most urgent building safety challenges in the UK today. Used widely in schools, hospitals, and public buildings between the 1950s and 1990s, RAAC was only ever designed to last around 30 years. Today, many panels are well past their safe lifespan, leaving thousands of buildings at risk of sudden structural failure.
At Umberslade, we provide a specialist RAAC removal service across the UK.
Our dedicated team works with estate managers, public bodies, and contractors to safely identify, remove, and replace RAAC while minimising disruption. We also handle asbestos removal where it coincides with RAAC — which it often does — and recycle RAAC materials at our own onsite facility wherever safe to do so.
Most importantly, our work doesn’t just eliminate risk: it extends the safe lifespan of public buildings, keeping schools, hospitals, and community spaces open and secure for decades to come.
What is RAAC?
RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) is a lightweight, precast material once promoted as a fast and cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete. It was installed extensively in schools, universities, hospitals, local authority buildings, housing developments and MOD sites.
Unlike dense concrete, RAAC is porous, aerated, and much weaker. It deteriorates faster, especially when exposed to moisture, and often fails without visible warning signs. This is why RAAC removal in the UK is now a government priority.
RAAC Lifespan and Water Ingress Problems
The dangers of RAAC are linked both to its limited design life and its porous structure. Many RAAC panels are now more than 50 years old, well beyond their intended 30-year service life. Over time, moisture penetrates the aerated structure, weakening the panels further and corroding the steel reinforcement within. This leads to cracking, sagging, and, in some cases, sudden collapse without warning.
Flat roofing systems are particularly vulnerable. Schools and hospitals that relied on RAAC roof planks are now experiencing widespread water ingress, leaks, and hidden structural failure. This is why urgent surveys and removal programmes are essential to protect building users.
RAAC and Asbestos: A Common Combination
Because RAAC was used during the same era as asbestos, the two materials are often found together. Asbestos may be present in insulation, ceiling panels, pipe lagging, or ductwork near RAAC installations. While RAAC itself does not require a licence to remove, asbestos removal is strictly licensed under UK law.
Umberslade provides both services, meaning clients benefit from a single point of responsibility for safe, compliant removal of both RAAC and asbestos. This prevents costly project delays and ensures total compliance with HSE regulations.
Approach: RAAC Removal in Schools UK
A Midlands primary school was found to contain RAAC roof panels suffering from water ingress, alongside asbestos insulation. Umberslade installed temporary classrooms to keep lessons running, created sealed removal zones for asbestos and RAAC works, and carried out safe removal in line with HSE standards. Modern, insulated, water-resistant roof materials were installed, and uncontaminated RAAC was recycled at our own facility.
The project was completed ahead of schedule. Pupils returned safely, and the school’s building life was extended by decades. This is a clear example of RAAC removal in schools UK being delivered efficiently and responsibly.
Approach: RAAC Removal in Hospitals
An NHS trust discovered RAAC panels in an outpatient wing used by thousands of patients each week. The hospital needed to remain open throughout. Umberslade planned phased, overnight operations to minimise disruption, carried out licensed asbestos removal in parallel with RAAC removal, and installed modern reinforced roof panels.
The result was that no services were interrupted, patients remained safe, and the hospital secured extended operational life. This project highlights the importance of specialist RAAC removal in hospitals, where continuity of service is critical.
The Umberslade RAAC Removal Approach
Our RAAC removal service is designed around safety, compliance, and minimal disruption. Every project begins with surveys to confirm RAAC presence and condition, followed by detailed risk assessments and safety plans. Containment and dust suppression systems are put in place before controlled dismantling begins. Where asbestos is present, our licensed asbestos operatives manage removal safely and legally.
Wherever possible, uncontaminated RAAC is recycled at our onsite facility, reducing waste and supporting sustainability. Once RAAC is removed, we install modern, compliant replacement systems that improve insulation, waterproofing, and long-term resilience. Finally, every project concludes with full certification, safety documentation, and approval for safe reoccupation.
Our RAAC Removal Service Includes
At Umberslade, our service is built on three pillars: safe removal and disposal in full compliance with HSE guidance, complete project management to minimise disruption to building operations, and recycling of uncontaminated RAAC at our own onsite facility. These commitments set us apart as a trusted delivery partner for estate managers and public bodies across the UK.
Recycling RAAC Materials
Sustainability is central to our approach. RAAC removal and recycling take place at our own facility whenever panels are free from asbestos contamination. This process diverts material from landfill and gives clients the assurance that their projects are being delivered with both safety and environmental responsibility in mind.
Minimum Fuss. Maximum Service. SnagZero™
Every project we deliver is carried out under our SnagZero™ commitment. This means minimising risk, error, and complication while maximising expertise, efficiency, and safety. It ensures that complex, safety-critical projects are delivered smoothly, reliably, and with minimum fuss for the client.
Extending the Lifespan of Public Buildings
RAAC removal is not just about eliminating a risk. It is about securing the future of the UK’s essential public estate. By removing and replacing RAAC, schools remain open safely for future generations, hospitals extend their usable life without the need for costly rebuilds, and public buildings continue to serve their communities with renewed confidence.
Umberslade’s work extends the lifespan of public buildings, modernises them with compliant materials, and safeguards the people who use them.
Why Choose Umberslade?
Umberslade has decades of experience on complex, safety-critical projects. Our expertise covers RAAC removal, asbestos management, and project delivery in live environments where disruption must be minimised. With a proven track record in schools, hospitals, and MOD sites, onsite recycling capabilities, and our SnagZero™ commitment, we provide a service that is trusted nationwide.
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