Key Points in This Blog
- There are different types of asbestos surveys.
- Management surveys cover normal building use.
- Refurbishment surveys are needed before renovation.
- Demolition surveys are required before demolition.
- Choosing the right survey helps prevent asbestos exposure.
Why is an Asbestos Survey Necessary?
Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) were widely used in construction until they were banned in 1999. Many buildings in the UK still contain asbestos, making a comprehensive asbestos risk assessment essential. Choosing the right asbestos survey ensures potential hazards are identified, helping to prevent asbestos exposure.
The Duty Holder's Responsibility
For non-domestic buildings, the duty holder must manage maintenance and prevent asbestos exposure. This requires an asbestos management plan, which depends on accurate information from an asbestos survey. A reliable survey safeguards workers during maintenance, refurbishment, demolition, or general use of a building.
Which Asbestos Survey Do You Need?
The right survey depends on how the building is used and what work you intend to carry out. HSE describes two main survey types: management surveys and refurbishment or demolition surveys.
| Your situation | Appropriate survey | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Normal occupation and routine maintenance | Management survey | Locates and assesses materials that could be disturbed during normal use or foreseeable maintenance. Usually includes minor intrusive inspection and sampling. |
| Refurbishment that will disturb the building fabric | Refurbishment survey | Intrusive inspection of the areas affected by the proposed work, including concealed materials. |
| Demolition of all or part of a building | Demolition survey | Destructive inspection covering the building or sections being demolished, aiming to locate asbestos as far as reasonably practicable. |
A management survey should not be described as non-intrusive. It also does not replace a refurbishment survey where planned work requires access beyond its scope.
For refurbishment or demolition surveys, agree the work area, access arrangements and necessary vacancy of the survey area beforehand. Restrictions and uninspected areas must be clearly recorded and resolved before affected work proceeds.
Explore our asbestos survey services or read HSE’s Asbestos: The survey guide (HSG264).
Surveyor Qualifications and Expertise
A relevant qualification, such as BOHS P402 or the RSPH Level 3 Award in Asbestos Surveying, is one part of demonstrating competence. Also check the surveyor’s practical experience, knowledge of similar buildings, quality procedures and ability to deliver the agreed survey scope.
HSE strongly recommends using a UKAS-accredited asbestos surveying organisation. Where an organisation is not accredited for surveying, clients should make reasonable enquiries to establish its competence. Laboratory accreditation for sample analysis is separate from accreditation for surveying.
You can learn more about our team, view our accreditations and explore our previous survey projects.
Key Elements in an Asbestos Survey Report
A thorough asbestos survey report should include:
- Surveyor's name
- Executive summary
- Asbestos register
- Risk assessments and recommendations
- Plans
- Bulk sample analysis
Reports must be clear and accessible for staff or clients. Any necessary caveats should be minimal, agreed upon with the client, and documented in the report.
Speed and Accessibility
Complete Asbestos Surveys uses electronic software to provide survey reports within 48 hours. This ensures you receive accurate information quickly. If you're unsure about the type of survey you need, our team is here to guide you.
Get Help Choosing the Right Survey
Tell us how your property is currently used and what work you have planned. Share any existing asbestos reports, drawings and details of the areas contractors will need to access so we can recommend an appropriate survey scope.
If you are buying a property, our homebuyer asbestos surveys can help you understand asbestos concerns before purchase. Let us know about any proposed renovations, as these may require a more intrusive survey of the affected areas.
Contact our team to discuss your requirements and request a quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right asbestos survey for my needs?
- Management Survey: For identifying ACMs disturbed during normal occupancy.
- Refurbishment Survey: For locating ACMs before renovation work.
- Demolition Survey: For identifying ACMs before demolition.
Your choice depends on the purpose of the survey and the level of building disturbance.
How can I ensure the surveyor is qualified?
- Check for RSPH Level 3 or BOHS P402 qualifications.
- Confirm the surveyor's experience and the company’s expertise in asbestos work.
What should I look for in an asbestos survey report?
- A clear and accessible report with:
- Surveyor’s name
- Executive summary
- Asbestos register
- Risk assessments and recommendations
- Plans
- Bulk sample analysis
Make sure the report is easy to reference and includes all necessary details, with any caveats properly documented.
