Asbestos ceiling

[Cbear]

Hi we live in an old cottage dating back to the 1800's and are concerned about our bedroom ceiling. It is artexed but underneath I some sort of board that is chalky to touch. It has some broken bits and the chalky coating looks very think as you can see something brown underneath.
We are worried about it being asbestos insulating board and we are in danger as sleeping in there and has electrics drilled through it.
What does anyone think?

 

[fender]

I can't tell from the pics, but if you are concerned, I'd get in an expert to examine it.

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

Have you access to above, could just be lath and plaster. I would be more concerned with the artex, do you know the age of that?
If asbestos is not disturb then you should be fine anyway.

 

[conny]

Local council environmental health will send out an inspector free of charge and give appropriate advice.