Asbestos has been found in more than 100 council-owned houses.
The potentially deadly substance was found as Aberdeenshire Council embarked on modernising the homes.
Disturbed or damaged asbestos can cause serious disease and even death to those who come into contact with it.
There were “small amounts” found in 160 properties.
Now, the local authority is seeking experts to remove asbestos from attics in the homes, as part of a project that is expected to last five months.
Last week, the local authority issued a tender for companies to come forward to remove the asbestos.
The closing date for companies to come forward is February 20.
Last night, an Aberdeenshire Council spokesman said: “We are issuing a tender for the removal of small amounts of asbestos that were discovered during the modernisation of 160 council houses.
“The modernisation works have now been completed, and as a result, a tender can now be issued for the asbestos to be removed.
“The work is likely to take five months. The deadline for interested parties is Thursday, February 20.”
At this stage, it is unknown how much the asbestos removal works will cost Aberdeenshire Council or which council properties are affected.
Last summer, asbestos was discovered in Durnhythe Care Home in Portsoy.
Work to remove the asbestos, alongside other refurbishment work, was estimated at £350,000 by Aberdeenshire Council.