An asbestos survey is a systematic and comprehensive examination of a building or structure to identify the location, type, condition, and extent of any ACMs present. Asbestos surveys are essential for any type of building, whether it is a residential, commercial, or industrial property, built or refurbished before the year 2000 (when the use of asbestos was banned in the UK).

The purpose of an asbestos survey is to help you:

• comply with the legal requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012), which require dutyholders to manage the risk of asbestos on their premises
• identify any potential or actual risks to workers, occupants, or visitors
• prioritize any remedial actions needed to manage or remove ACMs safely and effectively
• avoid unnecessary delays, disruptions, and costs associated with accidental disturbance of ACMs during refurbishment or demolition

There are two main types of asbestos surveys:

• Asbestos Management Survey: This type of survey is designed to locate, assess, and manage any ACMs that are likely to be disturbed or damaged during normal occupancy or maintenance activities. The survey looks for ACMs in accessible locations such as ceiling voids, floor coverings, pipe lagging, and boiler rooms. A management survey is usually the first step in developing an asbestos management plan for your property.

• Asbestos Refurbishment and Demolition Survey: This type of survey is more extensive and intrusive than a management survey, and it is required before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place on a building. The survey aims to identify any ACMs that may be disturbed during the planned work, and to ensure that they are safely removed or managed. The surveyor will access all areas of the building, including those that are difficult to reach or hidden, and take samples of any suspected ACMs for laboratory analysis.