Asbestos Compensation Calculator
Estimated Asbestos Compensation
General Damages (Pain & Suffering)-
Compensation Range-
Lost Earnings-
Medical & Care Costs-
Travel Costs-
Total Estimated Compensation-
Asbestos Compensation Bands (JCG 16th Edition)
| Condition | Mild | Moderate | Severe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesothelioma | £41,675–£69,400 | £69,400–£105,190 | £105,190–£129,840 |
| Lung Cancer | £29,380–£51,460 | £51,460–£75,890 | £75,890–£118,200 |
| Asbestosis | £14,780–£29,380 | £29,380–£43,010 | £43,010–£105,190 |
| Pleural Thickening | £7,510–£14,780 | £14,780–£29,380 | £29,380–£43,010 |
| Pleural Plaques | £1,000–£2,300 | £2,300–£3,190 | £3,190–£7,510 |
General damages only. Special damages (lost earnings, care, medical) added separately.
Key Compensation Figures
Max Mesothelioma
£129,840
Avg Asbestosis
£36,195
DMPS Scheme
~£94,000
Key Factors in Asbestos Claims
- Type of condition — mesothelioma attracts highest awards; pleural plaques the lowest
- Severity and prognosis — life expectancy significantly affects the JCG band
- Occupational exposure — duration and intensity of workplace asbestos contact
- Age at diagnosis — younger claimants typically receive more for loss of amenity
- Impact on daily life — breathing capacity, pain, mobility restrictions
- Multiple defendants — several employers may share liability
Important: Claims can be made under the Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers' Compensation) Act 1979 even where the employer has ceased trading. The Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme also provides compensation where insurers cannot be traced.
How to Use This Calculator
1
Select your asbestos condition
Choose the specific asbestos-related disease diagnosed: mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, pleural thickening, or pleural plaques.
2
Indicate severity level
Select the severity based on your diagnosis and prognosis. This determines the JCG compensation band.
3
Enter financial losses
Input your annual salary and months unable to work to calculate lost earnings.
4
Add special damages
Enter medical costs, care costs, and travel expenses for treatment.
5
Review your estimate
The calculator shows general damages, special damages, and total. Consult a specialist asbestos solicitor for a formal assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much compensation for asbestos exposure UK?
Compensation depends on the condition. Mesothelioma: £41,675-£129,840. Asbestosis: £14,780-£105,190. Pleural thickening: £7,510-£43,010. Pleural plaques: £1,000-£7,510. Total compensation including special damages can be significantly higher.
Can I claim for pleural plaques?
In England and Wales, pleural plaques alone are not compensable following the House of Lords decision in Johnston v NEI (2007). However, in Scotland, the Damages (Asbestos-related Conditions) (Scotland) Act 2009 allows claims for pleural plaques. If plaques cause psychiatric injury, a claim may be possible.
What is the time limit for an asbestos claim?
3 years from the date of diagnosis or date of knowledge. Courts frequently exercise discretion under Section 33 of the Limitation Act 1980 to extend this, given the long latency period of asbestos diseases.
Can family members claim after death?
Yes. Under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976, dependants can claim for loss of dependency. A bereavement award of £15,120 (fixed) is also available to the spouse/civil partner or parents of an unmarried minor.
What is the DMPS scheme?
The Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme provides compensation to mesothelioma sufferers who cannot trace their employer's insurer. Payments are approximately 80% of average civil court awards.
Do I need a specialist solicitor?
Asbestos claims are complex. A specialist asbestos solicitor will work on a no-win-no-fee basis and can trace former employers and insurers. Most reputable firms are members of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL).
Official Sources & References
- Judicial College Guidelines 16th Edition
- GOV.UK — UK Government Services and Information
- Citizens Advice — Personal Injury Claims
Data verified against official UK government and judicial sources. Last checked April 2026.