Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once prized for its fire resistance and insulating properties. Unfortunately, the tiny, thin fibres that made it so useful turned out to cause serious health problems when inhaled. Asbestos was banned in the UK around 2002, but many older buildings still contain it in their structures.

If you own or manage a building built before the ban, you might be wondering a few things: do you need a survey? What’s the worst that can happen if you skip it? And how do you even get one done?

Well, that’s what the experts at Prokil are here to break down for you. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the laws around asbestos surveys, including both commercial and residential properties.

What is an asbestos survey?

An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection carried out by a trained professional to find and evaluate asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building.

During the survey, the professional will visually inspect the building and collect samples to determine the type and quantity of asbestos present. They’ll also assess the condition of these materials, as damaged asbestos poses a higher risk.

The survey will help decide if any actions, such as removal or management, are needed. This information will also be used to create an asbestos register and management plan for the building.

Do I need an asbestos survey in my commercial property?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) puts the onus on the “duty holder” (usually the owner or person in control) of non-domestic premises to manage asbestos risks. The duty holder must carry out a “suitable and sufficient assessment” to determine if asbestos is present and its condition.

Unless there’s strong evidence otherwise, the law presumes asbestos is present. An asbestos survey is likely necessary to confirm its absence or gather information on its condition.

Before any major refurbishment or demolition work, the law also requires removing all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) as far as reasonably practicable. A refurbishment or demolition survey by a competent surveyor is mandatory to comply.

Do I need an asbestos survey in my home?

An asbestos survey isn’t a mandatory requirement for occupied domestic properties, like your own home. However, there are some situations where a survey is highly recommended, even if not legally required:

• If you’re planning any refurbishment or demolition work that could disturb asbestos-containing materials, a survey is crucial to identify and manage the risk.
• If you’re selling your property. More and more buyers are requesting an asbestos survey before purchasing a home, especially for properties built before 2000.

What happens if I don’t get an asbestos survey when I’m legally required to?

There are several potential consequences if you don’t get an asbestos survey in the UK when you need to:

Legal repercussions

• The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) can issue fines of up to £20,000 or even imprisonment for up to six months for failing to comply with asbestos regulations. In serious breaches, the fines can be unlimited, and imprisonment can extend to two years.
• You could face prosecution if someone is exposed to asbestos and becomes ill due to your negligence.

Health risks

Without an asbestos survey, you might unknowingly disturb ACMs during maintenance or refurbishment work. This can release asbestos fibres into the air, posing a serious health risk to occupants, workers, and anyone in the vicinity. Risks include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Financial implications

• If asbestos is discovered during unplanned work, the cost of dealing with it can be much higher than if it had been identified through a survey beforehand. This could involve additional surveys, specialist contractors, and potentially halting work.
• A lack of an asbestos survey can make it difficult to sell or rent a property, as potential buyers or tenants may be hesitant to proceed without knowing the asbestos status.

Breathe easy with Prokil’s trusted asbestos surveys

Worried about asbestos in your property? Let Prokil put your mind at ease!

Our UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) qualified surveyors will inspect your home or business, collect samples from suspected areas, and send them for professional lab analysis. We’ll then provide a clear report outlining the findings. If asbestos is present, we can connect you with a UKATA-approved removal company who will make your property safe again.

We serve a wide area, including London, Dorset, Hampshire, Surrey, Devon, and Kent, and further afield.

Ready for peace of mind? Book your asbestos survey online or call us on 0800 048 9488 today!