Can You Rent A Building Without An Asbestos Management Survey In Devon

Asbestos is a type of naturally occurring mineral found in soil and rock formations, which was widely used in construction until the 1980s due to its fire-retardant and insulating properties. However, it has since been identified as a significant health hazard and can cause severe respiratory problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. It is challenging to identify its presence in a building, and only a survey by a qualified professional can confirm its existence. Landlords have a responsibility to manage asbestos in their properties, and tenants have the right to be informed about its presence. But can you rent a building without an asbestos management survey in Devon? In this article, we discuss the importance of an asbestos management survey and the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we provide comprehensive and affordable asbestos survey and removal services to customers in Devon and the South West of England. With over twenty-five years of experience in the industry, we are a family-run business that values the health and safety of our clients above everything else. We are fully licensed and insured, and all our surveys and removals are carried out to the highest standards, in accordance with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a particularly hazardous material that was used in the construction of buildings until the 1980s. It was prevalent due to its natural insulation properties and fire-retardant properties. However, asbestos can pose severe health problems, particularly if inhaled. Once asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed or damaged, they release microscopic fibres that can cause severe respiratory issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer.

Landlord

Landlords are responsible for ensuring that their properties are free from hazards that can cause harm to their tenants. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires landlords to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in their properties and manage any risk effectively. Landlords must ensure that any ACMs are appropriately identified and manage the risks associated with them. The duty to manage asbestos in rental properties is an ongoing process and must be reviewed regularly.

Survey

The first step in managing asbestos in a rental property is to conduct an asbestos survey. An asbestos survey is an essential tool in identifying ACMs within the property. There are two types of asbestos survey: a management survey and a refurbishment and demolition survey. A management survey is a non-intrusive survey that aims to identify the presence, location and condition of ACMs. A refurbishment and demolition survey is more intrusive and carried out before any renovation or demolition work is carried out.

Manage

Landlords have a legal duty to manage any ACMs found in their properties effectively. This includes assessing the risk posed by the ACM, creating a detailed plan of how the asbestos will be managed, and implementing this plan accordingly. Landlords must ensure that anyone who may come into contact with the ACM, such as contractors or tenants, is informed of its presence and the measures in place to manage the risks associated with it.

Asbestos Management

Asbestos management is an ongoing process and requires regular review and assessment. Landlords must ensure that any changes to the property or any new information concerning ACMs are recorded and acted upon accordingly. Landlords also have a duty to ensure that any contractors they employ are aware of the presence of asbestos and the measures in place to manage the risks associated with it.

Duty to Manage Asbestos

The duty to manage asbestos is not only a legal requirement, but it is also crucial for the health and safety of anyone who may come into contact with ACMs. Landlords who fail to manage asbestos in their properties effectively not only put their tenants at risk, but they also risk facing legal action and fines.

Tenant

Tenants have the right to be informed about the presence of ACMs in their rental property. Landlords must inform tenants of the presence of any ACMs and how they are being managed. Tenants should also be given advice on how to avoid disturbing any ACMs and the risks associated with doing so. If tenants suspect that their landlord is not managing asbestos effectively, they should report their concerns to their local council's environmental health department.

Devon

Devon is a county in South West England characterised by its stunning coastline, rolling hills and diverse natural beauty. Like any other part of the UK, asbestos is a significant health hazard in Devon's buildings, particularly those constructed before the 1980s.

Conclusion

In conclusion, can you rent a building without an asbestos management survey in Devon? The answer is no. Landlords have a legal duty to manage any asbestos-containing materials found in their properties effectively. This includes assessing the risk posed by the ACM, creating a detailed plan of action, and implementing this plan accordingly. Tenants have the right to be informed of the presence of any ACMs in their rental property and how they are being managed. While asbestos is a hazardous material, with the right knowledge and management, the risks associated with it can be minimised. At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we provide comprehensive and affordable asbestos survey and removal services to customers in Devon and the South West of England. Contact us on 01962 458066 or at [email protected] to discuss your asbestos needs or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information.