An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a building or structure to identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). There are two main types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys, also known as R&D surveys.

A management survey is a non-destructive survey designed to locate, assess, and monitor asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that are likely to be disturbed, damaged, or deteriorated during normal occupancy and maintenance of a building or structure. The purpose of a management survey is to create an asbestos register and management plan for the building or structure, which must be reviewed and updated regularly.

A refurbishment/demolition survey is a more intrusive survey designed to identify all ACMs in a building or structure that will be disturbed, exposed, or removed as part of a refurbishment or demolition project. The purpose of an R&D survey is to ensure that all ACMs are safely removed or encapsulated before any intrusive work begins, to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure.