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Asbestos Surveys to Identify, Assess, and Manage Risk

Asbestos was widely used in UK construction throughout the twentieth century and was not fully prohibited until 2000. As a result, it remains present in many buildings today. While asbestos-containing materials that remain undisturbed may not present an immediate hazard, refurbishment, maintenance, or natural deterioration can significantly increase the risk of fibre release.

Prokil conducts professional asbestos surveys to identify the presence, type, and condition of asbestos-containing materials within a property. For commercial properties, commissioning an asbestos survey is a legal requirement and forms part of the duty holder’s responsibility under UK health and safety legislation to identify, assess, and manage asbestos risks appropriately.

Why Thousands Trust Prokil with Asbestos Surveys


Our Careful, Controlled Approach to Identifying Asbestos

Every asbestos survey begins with a detailed inspection carried out by a fully qualified Prokil surveyor. Areas commonly associated with asbestos-containing materials are assessed in line with the building’s age, construction method, and overall condition. Surveys are conducted with minimal disruption wherever possible.

Where suspect materials are identified, samples are collected using controlled procedures designed to reduce disturbance and limit fibre release. All samples are submitted to an accredited laboratory for analysis, ensuring accurate results while maintaining strict safety standards throughout the process.

What Our Asbestos Surveys Include

Following laboratory analysis, a comprehensive asbestos survey report is issued, providing clear, factual findings to support compliance, planning, and risk management.

Each report includes:

  • The location and type of any asbestos-containing materials identified
  • An assessment of material condition and associated risk
  • Guidance on whether materials should be monitored, managed, or removed
  • Clear explanations of legal responsibilities and recommended actions
  • Advice on preventing disturbance during future maintenance or refurbishment

This structured approach ensures accurate information and proportionate recommendations, supporting safe management and informed planning.

Asbestos Risks & Long-Term Health Protection

Asbestos-containing materials were widely used in buildings for insulation and fire resistance. When these materials remain undisturbed and in good condition, the immediate risk may be low. However, damage, deterioration, or disturbance can release microscopic fibres into the air, creating a significant hazard.

Once inhaled, asbestos fibres cannot be broken down by the body. Long-term exposure is associated with serious and often irreversible illness. Government guidance confirms that no safe level of asbestos exposure exists, reinforcing the importance of early identification and controlled management. Asbestos remains the leading cause of work-related deaths in the United Kingdom, with thousands of fatalities recorded each year, most commonly linked to maintenance, refurbishment, and construction activities.

A professional asbestos survey allows risks to be assessed accurately and appropriate control measures to be implemented before exposure occurs.

Health Conditions Associated with Asbestos Exposure Include

  • Cancers such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, and ovarian cancer
  • Progressive lung disease, including asbestosis
  • Pleural disease, such as pleural thickening and pleural plaques
  • Ongoing respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function

These conditions often develop many years after initial exposure, which can make asbestos difficult to detect as a health risk. A professional asbestos survey remains the most reliable method of confirming whether asbestos is present and determining how it should be managed to protect occupants both now and in the future.

Where Is Asbestos Most Commonly Found in Properties?

Asbestos can be difficult to identify without professional testing, particularly as it was frequently incorporated into other building materials. Properties constructed or refurbished before 2000 are more likely to contain asbestos-containing materials, and attempts to inspect or remove suspected materials without appropriate controls can increase the risk of fibre release.

Prokil surveyors are trained to recognise where asbestos is most commonly found and how to assess these areas safely. During an asbestos survey, known risk locations are inspected, and samples are taken only where necessary to confirm the presence of asbestos.

Common Areas Where Asbestos May Be Found Include

  • Insulation materials
  • Textured coatings, such as artex
  • Cement roof sheets and tiles
  • Soffits, fascia boards, and undercloaking
  • Floor tiles and adhesive residues
  • Fire doors and panels
  • Flues, pipe lagging, and water tanks

If asbestos is suspected within a property, arranging a professional survey is strongly advised. Early identification reduces the risk of accidental exposure and supports safe, responsible management.

Book Your Asbestos Survey Today

If refurbishment works are planned, a surveyor’s report has identified potential asbestos, or compliance responsibilities need to be met, arranging an asbestos survey at an early stage helps reduce uncertainty and avoid unnecessary delays.

With over 50 years of experience, Prokil supports homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients across London, the South of England, and South Wales. UKATA-certified surveyors provide clear, factual guidance, enabling appropriate action to be taken based on accurate assessment. Visit our case studies to see for yourself.

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