An asbestos survey is in some cases a legal requirement for commercial properties, so you need to be sure that your property is safe from asbestos-containing materials (ACM).
If you own or control any commercial property built prior to the year 2000, you must hold an asbestos survey by law – this is called an Asbestos Management Survey. Any properties built after the year 2000 aren’t legally required to have an asbestos survey, but the use of asbestos was still occurring amongst builders after this date.
In this guide, we answer the commonly asked question ‘Do I need an asbestos survey?’ so that you can be sure your property remains safe from asbestos.
What is an asbestos survey?
Asbestos surveys are used to locate the presence and extent of any ACM in a property that could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy.
There are two types of asbestos surveys that are typically used within the UK. Asbestos Management Surveys and Refurbishment & Demolition Surveys. There are also two other types of asbestos surveys that aren’t widely used but are still necessary for some situations. Re-inspection Surveys and Pre-purchase Surveys.
What type of asbestos survey do I need?
As previously mentioned, there are a number of asbestos surveys available to those who need them. Below are the different types of asbestos surveys and when you may need to have one carried out on your property.
Asbestos Management Surveys
An Asbestos Management Survey is the most common type of survey and is used to locate the presence and extent of any ACM in a property. It is a legal requirement for all commercial properties built before the year 2000, to hold a valid asbestos survey.
Refurbishment & Demolition Survey
The purpose of this asbestos survey is to locate and describe all ACM in the area where the refurbishment or demolition is to take place. A Refurbishment and Demolition Survey is a legal requirement when a building (or part of it) is to be upgraded, refurbished or demolished.
Re-inspection Survey
If any ACM is found upon completion of a Management Survey, a 6-12 month re-inspection will help ensure your compliance with The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. This survey helps keep any present ACM under control and ensures the building is safe for use.
Pre-purchase Survey
A Pre-purchase Survey is recommended prior to purchasing a property (either commercial or residential). Although it’s not a legal requirement to hold one of these surveys, it is a legal requirement to declare any knowledge of ACM in a property prior to selling.
Other reasons why you may need an asbestos survey
Although the above are the primary reasons you need to book an asbestos survey, there are other situations that may occur that could result in the need for an asbestos survey.
Asbestos management plan
If asbestos is present in the property, you need a plan detailing how you will manage the material, keeping occupants, tradesmen and visitors safe from exposure – this is a legal requirement. In an asbestos management plan, you may choose to have annual Re-inspection surveys.
Entering a lease
If you enter a lease, where you look after the maintenance of a property, then the responsibility for ACM, in most cases, lies with the leaseholder. Getting an Asbestos Management Survey in this instance would be the best option to determine whether there is asbestos in the property.
Purchasing a residential property
As previously mentioned, it isn’t a legal requirement for residential properties to hold an asbestos survey but it is recommended. Knowing that a property is safe from asbestos will give homeowners peace of mind. See our guide if you want to find out more information about selling a residential property such as a flat.
How can Blue Star Asbestos help?
With over 10 years in the asbestos industry, you can rely on Blue Star to provide you with an accurate and detailed assessment of any asbestos in your premises. Our surveyors are proficient in surveying all types of buildings, from small domestic dwellings to large industrial and commercial premises.
As well as providing all types of asbestos surveys, we can also carry out asbestos tests and fire risk assessments for properties. If you require any asbestos-related service, you can contact one of our friendly team members by filling out the form below.
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