Asbestos, once prized for its versatility, is now recognised as a hazardous material that needs careful management, and asbestos surveying is part of that process. Whether you’re planning home renovations or working on a construction site, if you’ve suspected you’ve found asbestos, then arranging an asbestos survey is crucial for everyone’s safety.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything there is to know about asbestos surveying including what they are, why they’re important for protecting your health and property, and the different types of surveys to be aware of.
What is an asbestos survey?
Asbestos surveying is the process of identifying, assessing, and recording the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building. These surveys are key to managing the risk posed by asbestos, ensuring legal compliance, and keeping occupants, workers, and visitors safe.
As asbestos was widely used in construction materials before its ban in the UK in 1999, it’s not uncommon to find it in older homes, schools, hospitals, warehouses, and offices. When disturbed, asbestos fibres can be released into the air and cause health issues later in life. However, through a professional survey, identifying asbestos is the first step to safely managing or removing it.
Why is asbestos surveying important?
An asbestos survey is a legal requirement in many situations, particularly for non-domestic properties and buildings that are due for refurbishment or demolition. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 places a duty to manage asbestos on anyone responsible for maintenance and repair of non-domestic properties.
Without a professional survey, asbestos may unknowingly be disturbed during work and this puts people at risk and could result in legal penalties. Some of the key reasons why asbestos surveying is important include:
- It shows legal compliance with UK asbestos regulations
- It prevents accidental disturbances of ACMs
- It demonstrates safe management or removal plans
- It protects building users and workers
How many types of asbestos survey are there?
There are two main types of asbestos surveys, each serving a specific purpose. It’s important to note that surveys should only be carried out by trained asbestos surveyors, like Midlands Asbestos Solutions (MAS), who follow HSE guidelines and use accredited labs for testing.
Asbestos management surveys
A management survey is the cornerstone of effective asbestos management within a property or premises. It’s a systematic inspection to locate and assess the presence and condition of ACMs that could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy. These surveys are non-invasive and are designed to ensure that ACMs are properly identified and managed. They also help to ensure their condition is correctly monitored over time.
Key components of a management survey include:
- Thorough inspection – a comprehensive visual inspection of the premises’s accessible areas including ceilings, areas above suspended ceilings, walls, floors, and service ducts.
- Sampling and analysis – samples will be taken and analysed to confirm the presence or absence of asbestos.
- Risk assessment – a material and priority risk assessment will be conducted to determine the potential for disturbance or damage to ACMs and the associated risks.
- Management plan – the survey results will determine an asbestos management plan and will outline how the identified ACMs will be managed or removed.
Asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys
Refurbishment and demolition surveys are much more extensive and intrusive compared to management surveys. They’re required when a building, or part of it, is going to be refurbished or demolished. The aim is to locate and identify all ACMs in the areas where the refurbishment or demolition work is going to be carried out and ensure they can be safely removed before the project can begin.
Key components of a refurbishment and demolition survey include:
- Comprehensive inspection – a comprehensive inspection is conducted to hidden areas where ACMs may be present.
- Full sampling – extensive samples are taken to identify the type and condition of ACMs present which will provide a detailed understanding for safe removal.
- Preparation for construction work – all ACMs identified will be safely removed before any refurbishment or demolition work begins to prevent accidental disturbance.
- Notification to relevant parties – the survey findings will be shared with all relevant parties, including contractors and site workers, to ensure awareness and adherence to safety protocols.
How long does an asbestos survey take?
The time it takes to complete an asbestos survey will depend on various factors such as the size, age, and complexity of the property. A typical domestic property survey may take a few hours, while larger commercial buildings may require longer.
Following the on-site inspection, laboratory analysis of samples and a written report are usually provided within a few working days.
How much is an asbestos survey?
The cost of an asbestos survey will again depend on a few factors such as the property size, number of samples required, and the type of survey you need. Depending on whether you need a survey for a domestic or commercial property will also affect the cost.
To get an accurate price for your requirements, we’d recommend requesting a free and tailored quote from our specialists.
How often should asbestos surveys be carried out?
If you have a non-domestic property and you require a management survey, it’s recommended these are reviewed regularly. This will usually consist of annual reinspections to assess whether the condition of the ACMs have changed. If they have, your management plan will be updated accordingly to ensure continued protection.
For refurbishment and demolition surveys, these would only need to be carried out each time you plan any major renovation works to your property. This is because any asbestos found is removed and disposed of safely and no longer poses a risk to your building and its occupants.
Book your professional asbestos survey today
Asbestos surveying is an essential tool for managing and mitigating the risks associated with asbestos exposure. Whether it’s a routine management survey to monitor existing ACMs, or a comprehensive refurbishment and demolition survey to prepare for construction work, these surveys are vital steps in ensuring the safety of occupants, workers, and the wider community.
At Midlands Asbestos Solutions, we’re fully qualified to carry out all types of asbestos surveying. Our experienced surveyors use the latest techniques and equipment to carry out detailed inspections with minimal disruption. They’ll also provide clear, easy-to-understand reports and ongoing support for asbestos management, removal, and compliance.
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or responsible person for a commercial property, don’t hesitate to contact us today to book your professional survey.
Asbestos surveying FAQs
Do I need an asbestos survey for a domestic property?
While it’s not a legal requirement for private homes, an asbestos survey is highly recommended if your property was built before 2000, especially if no renovation work has taken place before. It helps prevent disturbing asbestos materials unknowingly, and protects your health and safety.
Who is responsible for asbestos surveys in commercial properties?
The ‘duty holder’- often the building owner, landlord, or managing agent – is legally responsible for arranging asbestos surveys and maintaining an asbestos register for non-domestic buildings.
Can asbestos surveys detect all types of asbestos?
A thorough survey by trained professionals will detect visible and accessible ACMs. However, hidden asbestos (e.g. behind walls or under floors) may not be identified without more intrusive investigation. This will be when a refurbishment and demolition survey is more appropriate.
