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A diagnosis of pleural thickening can be life-changing. Often caused by past asbestos exposure, this condition can affect your breathing, daily comfort, and long-term health. If your pleural thickening was caused by workplace asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to compensation. Claims 24 Hours offers clear advice, specialist legal support, and no win, no fee representation to help you secure justice and financial security for the future.
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Pleural Thickening Compensation Claims – Understanding Your Rights
Pleural thickening is a serious asbestos-related lung condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. Although it is classed as a non-cancerous condition, it often causes long-term symptoms such as breathlessness, chest tightness, pain, and reduced lung capacity. For many people, these symptoms worsen over time and restrict everyday activities.
If you have been diagnosed with pleural thickening and believe it was caused by asbestos exposure at work, you may have the legal right to claim compensation. A claim is not just about money. It is about recognising the harm caused, holding negligent employers accountable, and securing financial support for medical care, loss of income, and future needs.
At Claims 24 Hours, we help people affected by asbestos-related illnesses understand their options and pursue compensation through a clear, supportive, and no win, no fee process.
What Is Pleural Thickening?
Pleural thickening occurs when the pleura, the thin protective membranes surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity, become thickened and scarred. This scarring reduces the elasticity of the lungs and can make breathing increasingly difficult.
The most common cause of pleural thickening is asbestos exposure. When asbestos fibres are inhaled, they lodge in the lungs and pleural tissue. Over time, the body reacts to these fibres by forming scar tissue, leading to thickening and stiffness of the pleura.
Pleural thickening may be:
Localised, affecting small areas of the pleura
Diffuse, covering large areas and causing more severe symptoms
Diffuse pleural thickening is particularly serious and may lead to long-term disability and reduced life expectancy.
What Causes Pleural Thickening?
The overwhelming majority of pleural thickening cases in the UK are caused by asbestos exposure at work.
Asbestos was widely used across British industries until the late 1990s, particularly in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and engineering. Workers in these sectors were regularly exposed to asbestos fibres without adequate protection, training, or warning.
Industries Most Affected
If you worked in any of the following industries, you may have been exposed to asbestos:
- Construction and demolition
- Shipbuilding and ship repair
- Plumbing and heating installation
- Electrical work
- Railway engineering
- Manufacturing (especially textiles, brake linings, and insulation)
- Power stations and energy plants
- Dockyard work
- Asbestos product manufacturing
Even brief or indirect exposure can be enough to cause pleural thickening. You did not need to work directly with asbestos — simply being in the same building or environment was often sufficient.
Other Causes of Pleural Thickening
While asbestos is by far the most common cause, pleural thickening can also result from:
- Severe lung infections such as tuberculosis or pneumonia
- Radiation therapy to the chest area
- Other industrial dust exposure (e.g., silica)
- Rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions
- Pleural effusions (fluid build-up around the lungs)
- Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
If your pleural thickening is linked to any form of workplace exposure or negligence, you may still have grounds to claim.
Can I Claim Compensation for Pleural Thickening?
Yes — if your pleural thickening was caused by asbestos exposure at work, you are likely entitled to compensation.
To make a successful claim, you need to show that:
- You were exposed to asbestos during your employment.
- Your employer failed to protect you — for example, by not providing adequate safety equipment, training, or warnings.
- Your pleural thickening is a direct result of that exposure — confirmed by medical diagnosis.
You do not need to prove that your employer acted deliberately. It is enough to show that they did not meet their legal duty of care to keep you safe.
What If My Employer No Longer Exists?
This is a common concern — and it should not stop you from claiming.
Even if the company you worked for has closed down, been taken over, or dissolved, you can still pursue compensation. In many cases, the employer’s liability insurance will still be active, or there are government schemes in place to cover claims where the insurer cannot be traced.
Our team at Claims 24 Hours has extensive experience in tracing old employers and insurers. We will handle this on your behalf.
Pleural Thickening Compensation Claims – No Win, No Fee
If your pleural thickening was caused by asbestos exposure at work, you may be entitled to compensation under UK law. Claims 24 Hours works with specialist asbestos solicitors who understand the complexity of these cases.
With a No Win, No Fee agreement:
- You pay nothing upfront
- You pay nothing if your claim is unsuccessful
- Legal fees are only payable if your claim succeeds
- Success fees are capped by law
This allows you to pursue a claim without financial risk while focusing on your health.
How Much Compensation Could I Receive?
The amount of compensation you could receive depends on the severity of your condition and how it has affected your life.
Compensation is calculated based on two main elements:
General Damages
This covers the pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life caused by your pleural thickening. It takes into account:
- The severity of your symptoms
- How long you are expected to live with the condition
- The impact on your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy life
Typical compensation ranges:
- Minor pleural thickening (limited symptoms, little impact on daily life): £10,000 – £15,000
- Moderate pleural thickening (ongoing breathlessness, some restrictions): £15,000 – £35,000
- Severe pleural thickening (significant pain, severe breathing difficulties, major lifestyle impact): £35,000 – £90,000+
In the most severe cases — particularly diffuse pleural thickening — compensation can exceed £100,000.
Special Damages
This covers the financial losses you have suffered as a result of your condition, including:
- Lost earnings (past and future)
- Medical treatment and prescriptions
- Travel costs to hospital appointments
- Care and assistance at home
- Adaptations to your home or vehicle
- Loss of pension contributions
Every case is different, so the exact amount will depend on your personal circumstances. Our team will work to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
Pleural Thickening and Pleural Plaques?
Pleural plaques and pleural thickening are both caused by asbestos exposure, but they are not the same thing.
Pleural Plaques
Pleural plaques are small, localised areas of scarring on the pleura. They do not usually cause symptoms and do not affect lung function. In most cases, they are discovered by accident during a chest X-ray or scan.
Because pleural plaques do not cause symptoms or harm, they are not claimable on their own in most parts of the UK. However, their presence is a clear sign of asbestos exposure — which means you may be at risk of developing more serious conditions in the future.
Pleural Thickening
Pleural thickening, on the other hand, is a more serious condition. It involves widespread scarring and thickening of the pleura, which restricts lung movement and causes real, measurable symptoms.
Unlike pleural plaques, pleural thickening is claimable — because it causes genuine harm and impacts your quality of life.
If you have been diagnosed with pleural plaques, it is important to monitor your health closely. Should you go on to develop pleural thickening or another asbestos-related disease, you will be able to claim compensation.
How Long Do I Have to Make a Claim?
In the UK, you have three years from your “date of knowledge” to make a pleural thickening compensation claim.
Your date of knowledge is the date when you:
- Were diagnosed with pleural thickening, and
- Became aware (or should reasonably have become aware) that it was caused by asbestos exposure at work.
This is not necessarily the same as the date you were first exposed to asbestos. Many people were exposed decades ago but only received a diagnosis recently — in which case, the three-year limit starts from the diagnosis date.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are some situations where the three-year limit may be extended or does not apply:
- If you were under 18 when you were exposed, the time limit does not start until your 18th birthday.
- If you lack mental capacity to make a claim, there is no time limit while that incapacity continues.
- In cases where the person with pleural thickening has died, their family may have three years from the date of death (or date of knowledge) to claim on their behalf.
Because of the complexities around the date of knowledge, it is vital to seek legal advice as soon as you are diagnosed. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim is likely to be.
What to Do If You Have Been Diagnosed with Pleural Thickening
If you have recently been diagnosed, here is what we recommend:
- Get your diagnosis confirmed in writing. Make sure your GP or consultant records the link between your condition and asbestos exposure.
- Gather information about your work history. Write down where you worked, when, and what tasks you performed. This will help your solicitor build your case.
- Keep records of all medical appointments, treatments, and expenses. These will form part of your special damages claim.
- Contact us as soon as possible. The sooner you start your claim, the better. Evidence can be lost over time, and memories fade.
You do not need to have all the answers before you get in touch. Our team will guide you through every step of the process.
Why Choose Claims 24 Hours?
✓ No Win, No Fee
You only pay if your claim is successful. There is no upfront cost and no hidden fees.
✓ UK-Based Specialists
Our team is based right here in the UK. You will speak to real people who understand your situation and the law.
✓ Experienced in Asbestos Claims
We have years of experience handling pleural thickening and other asbestos-related claims. We know what it takes to win.
✓ Fast and Stress-Free
We handle all the legal work, so you can focus on your health. No jargon, no delays, no runaround.
Start Your Claim Today
If you have been diagnosed with pleural thickening caused by asbestos exposure at work, you deserve compensation. The process is simpler than you think — and with Claims 24 Hours, it costs you nothing to find out if you have a claim.
No Win, No Fee. No obligation. No stress.
Call us now: +44 20 7043 3779
FAQs – Pleural Thickening Compensation Claims
What is pleural thickening?
Pleural thickening is a lung condition where the lining of the lungs becomes scarred and thickened, often due to asbestos exposure. It can restrict lung expansion and cause long-term breathing difficulties.
Can pleural thickening be caused by asbestos exposure at work?
Yes. Most cases are linked to workplace asbestos exposure, particularly in construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and similar industries where asbestos was widely used.
Can I claim compensation for pleural thickening?
You may be eligible if your condition is linked to asbestos exposure caused by employer negligence. A confirmed medical diagnosis and work history are key factors in making a claim.
Is pleural thickening a serious condition?
While it is non-cancerous, pleural thickening can significantly affect lung function and quality of life. In some cases, it may worsen over time or increase the risk of other asbestos-related diseases.
How long do I have to make a pleural thickening claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of diagnosis or when you became aware the condition was linked to asbestos exposure. Exceptions may apply, so early legal advice is important.
Can I claim on a No Win, No Fee basis?
Yes. Pleural thickening claims are usually handled under a No Win, No Fee agreement, meaning there are no upfront costs and nothing to pay if the claim is unsuccessful.
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No Win No Fee Explained
All claims handled by Claims 24 Hours are taken on a No Win No Fee basis. This means you will not pay any legal fees upfront, and if your claim is unsuccessful, you will not pay anything at all.
If your claim is successful, your solicitor will deduct a success fee from your compensation. In most cases, this fee is 25% of the amount awarded, although this may vary depending on the complexity of your case. This will be clearly explained to you before you agree to proceed, and you will never be asked to pay more than the agreed percentage.
Your solicitor may also arrange After the Event (ATE) insurance on your behalf. This insurance covers the cost of any legal expenses or disbursements (such as medical reports or expert fees) if your claim is unsuccessful, ensuring your claim remains completely risk-free.
Please note: In certain circumstances, fees may apply if you decide to terminate your claim after it has begun, or if you fail to cooperate with your solicitor. This includes situations such as:
- Deliberately providing false or misleading information
- Refusing to attend medical examinations or court hearings
- Failing to respond to reasonable requests from your solicitor
These terms will be set out in your agreement before your claim starts, so you will always know exactly where you stand.