Billy mentioned that there was a huge renovation in the 1970s also in the kitchenarea....i am sure there is asbestos in that place...i wouldnt be surprised if they put some fireproof asbestos ceiling in that kitchenarea....but they do what they like...i have to say i dont want to mess with asbestos...Your cottages must have had some remedial or additional work done post 1930 - I'm pretty sure asbestos wasn't used in homes until the 30s. You're right about the 'hidden' use of asbestos - I ripped up 1960s vinyl flooring in our hallway - turns out the 'paper' lining was asbestos! Luckily it's not dangerous until it's in teeny tiny particles.