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When it comes to managing the risks associated with asbestos, choosing the right type of asbestos survey is crucial. Whether you are a commercial property owner, a landlord, or managing a construction project, understanding the various types of asbestos surveys ensures both legal compliance and safety. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the three main types of asbestos surveys and help you determine which one suits your needs.
Asbestos, once widely used in construction for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, is now recognised as a significant health hazard. Inhalation of asbestos fibres can lead to serious diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. That’s why UK law requires asbestos surveys to be carried out in non-domestic buildings constructed before the year 2000.
Surveying identifies the presence, condition, and extent of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. With this information, you can manage asbestos risk effectively and take the necessary precautions during any refurbishment or demolition work.
There are three main types of asbestos surveys, as defined in the HSE guidance HSG264:
Purpose: To locate any asbestos-containing materials that could be disturbed during normal occupancy, including routine maintenance and repairs.
When it's needed: This survey is required for buildings constructed before 2000 and still in use. It helps duty holders comply with their legal obligations under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR).
What it involves: A non-intrusive survey that includes minor sampling and analysis. Surveyors visually inspect accessible areas and materials, checking ceilings, walls, floors, and service ducts.
Who should get this survey: Property owners, landlords, and facility managers who are responsible for maintaining a building.
Purpose: To locate and describe all ACMs in areas where refurbishment work is planned, regardless of their condition or location.
When it's needed: Before any upgrade, maintenance, or intrusive refurbishment project starts. This type of survey is legally required prior to any work that disturbs the fabric of the building.
What it involves: A fully intrusive survey involving destructive inspection methods to access all areas. Walls, floors, and ceilings may be broken into for testing.
Who should get this survey: Contractors, developers, or owners planning structural changes, repairs, or major alterations to older buildings.
Purpose: To identify all asbestos materials within a building before it is demolished.
When it's needed: This survey is a legal requirement before any demolition project of a pre-2000 building can begin.
What it involves: Like the refurbishment survey, this is a fully intrusive and destructive survey. It requires complete access to all parts of the building, including hidden or hard-to-reach spaces, to ensure no asbestos goes unnoticed.
Who should get this survey: Developers and demolition contractors working on buildings that are scheduled for complete removal.
Choosing the right asbestos survey depends on the nature of your building and what activities are taking place:
Each survey serves a distinct purpose and must be conducted by competent and licensed asbestos surveyors.
At 247 Asbestos Services, we specialise in asbestos surveys across Warwickshire and the West Midlands. Our certified surveyors provide comprehensive reports, fast turnaround times, and expert guidance on compliance and next steps. Whether you're managing a commercial property or preparing for demolition, we can tailor a solution to your needs.
Benefits of choosing us:
Identifying and managing asbestos is not just about compliance—it's about protecting lives. Knowing which asbestos survey to choose ensures your project can move forward safely and legally. If you’re unsure which type of survey you need, our expert team is here to help.
Contact 247 Asbestos Services today for a free consultation or to book your asbestos survey in Warwickshire and beyond.