When purchasing an older property, understanding any potential asbestos risks is an important part of making an informed decision. We were contacted by a prospective home buyer after their home buyer's survey raised concerns regarding the age of the property and the possibility of asbestos-containing materials being present. Our asbestos management survey provided the client with a clear understanding of the property's asbestos risks, allowing them to obtain removal quotations, negotiate costs with the seller and proceed with confidence.
Case Study Overview
- Provided
- Asbestos Homebuyers Survey
- Client
- Home Buyer
- Location
- Huddersfield
- Year
- 2023
- Duration
- 4 Hours
- Cost
- £340
The Client's Challenge
The client was in the process of purchasing a residential property in Huddersfield when their home buyer's survey highlighted concerns that asbestos-containing materials could be present within the building. Before committing to the purchase, they wanted certainty regarding any asbestos risks and an understanding of any future costs they may face.
As the property was older and had undergone various alterations over the years, it was important to identify any asbestos-containing materials that could affect future maintenance, refurbishment or extension works. The client was particularly keen to ensure there would be no unexpected surprises after completing the purchase.
Our Approach
We carried out a comprehensive asbestos management survey across the property, inspecting all accessible internal and external areas and taking samples of suspect materials for laboratory analysis.
The survey identified asbestos insulating board (AIB) to the garage ceiling. Whilst the material could have remained in situ with appropriate management, the client planned to construct an extension above the garage and therefore required removal costs as part of their future project planning.
An asbestos cement flue pipe was also identified within the loft space. As this would be impacted by the proposed works, it was included within the recommendations for removal. Following laboratory analysis, a detailed report was issued outlining all findings, risk assessments and management recommendations.
10
Samples Taken
250m²
Area Surveyed
2
Positive ACMs Identified
£340
Cost to the Client
48 Hours
Report Turnaround
Positive Outcome
The survey gave the client complete clarity regarding the asbestos-containing materials present within the property before they exchanged contracts. Armed with accurate survey information and removal quotations, they were able to successfully negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to reflect the costs of the required asbestos removal works.
By commissioning the survey before completing the purchase, the client avoided unexpected costs, gained confidence in their investment and was able to plan future renovation and extension works knowing the asbestos risks had been fully identified and assessed.