What is an asbestos survey

An asbestos survey is a thorough inspection of a property to identify the presence of asbestos or asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Conducted by an accredited surveyor, the process involves carefully examining the property to locate any potentially hazardous materials. If suspicious materials are found, samples are sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis. You’ll receive a detailed report outlining any asbestos detected, ensuring you have all the information needed to manage the risk safely and effectively.

Detailed Findings

A comprehensive list of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) identified, including their location, condition, and type.

Risk Assessment:

Clear risk ratings for each identified ACM, highlighting the potential hazards and urgency for action.

Recommendations

Practical advice on managing or removing asbestos safely, tailored to your property and specific needs.

Supporting Documentation

High-quality photographs, material descriptions, and laboratory analysis results for full transparency and accuracy.

What will the survey report include?

After thoroughly inspecting every area of your property—from ceilings to floors, attic spaces to basements—we document and record all relevant details, including heating systems, insulation, electrical units, floor coverings, and gas installations.

The survey report you receive will be clear and easy to understand, containing:

A realistic scene showing an asbestos surveyor conducting an inspection in a property. The surveyor is wearing protective gear, including a helmet, gl
A professional conducting an asbestos survey in a modern commercial lease building. The surveyor is wearing protective gear, including gloves and hold

Pre-Sale or Lease of a Domestic Property

In recent years, it has become increasingly common for buyers to request an asbestos survey as part of the property sale process. While this practice has been standard in the commercial sector for some time, it’s now gaining popularity among domestic property purchasers due to growing awareness of asbestos in buildings.

A pre-sale asbestos survey, often referred to as a Management Asbestos Survey, involves a thorough visual inspection of the property. During the survey, we carefully assess all areas and take samples of any materials that appear to contain asbestos. This provides buyers with the reassurance they need and helps ensure a smooth transaction.

Refurbishment or Significant Building Work

If you're planning to carry out refurbishment work or demolish a structure such as a building, outhouse, garage, or barn, you’ll need a Refurbishment & Demolition Survey (commonly referred to as an R&D Asbestos Survey).

This is a legal requirement before any refurbishment, demolition, or significant upgrades can begin, as outlined in HSG 264 guidelines.

During this survey, we thoroughly inspect the areas that will be impacted by the work. This may involve opening up walls, partitions, or ceilings to check for hidden asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) like asbestos cement or insulating boards. In some cases, floorboards and coverings may need to be lifted to identify vinyl asbestos tiles, which are often found in older properties.

For minor upgrades, such as installing a new lock or painting walls and floors, a full R&D Asbestos Survey may not be necessary. Instead, a sample test can usually determine whether asbestos is present in specific areas, providing a simpler and cost-effective solution.

A professional building contractor consulting with an asbestos surveyor on a domestic property. The contractor is wearing casual work attire, and the

Do I Need a Refurbishment Survey for Every Job?

As a building contractor, you might wonder if you need a Refurbishment & Demolition (R&D) Survey for every project.

A common misconception is that R&D surveys are only required for non-domestic properties. While it’s true that the HSE website highlights non-domestic properties, the legal situation goes a step further.

Once work begins on a domestic property, it is considered a “place of work” and is subject to the same health and safety laws as any building site. This means you are legally obligated to ensure the safety of your team and others, including conducting the necessary asbestos surveys.

If you’re unsure whether an R&D Survey is required for your project, call us today for advice and guidance. We’re here to help you stay compliant and safe.

We also provide safe professional asbestos removal, collection, and disposal across Scotland, catering to individuals, businesses, contractors, and tradespeople.

Our network ensures safe and legal handling of asbestos waste, fully compliant with regulations. In addition, we offer expert compliance support and guidance throughout the process, giving you peace of mind that everything is handled correctly. Let us take care of your asbestos disposal needs with reliable, cost-effective solutions you can trust.

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