Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon: Do Converted Houses Require Asbestos Survey In Devon

If you own a converted house in Devon or are planning to purchase one, you should be aware of the possibility of asbestos presence in the building. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in construction materials in the past due to its fire-resistant and durable properties. However, it has been found to cause severe health problems, including cancer, when its fibers are inhaled.

As a result, the UK government introduced regulations to control the use of asbestos, with the ultimate goal of eradicating it from all properties. If you are a landlord, tenant, or building owner, you should understand the regulations around asbestos, and the role of an asbestos survey in managing the material. In this landing page, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon explores the topic, providing guidance on whether or not converted houses require an asbestos survey in Devon.

The Role of an Asbestos Survey

An asbestos survey is the first step in managing asbestos safely in a building. The survey identifies any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the property, and creates an asbestos management plan that outlines how to handle and remove the material safely.

There are two types of surveys: a management survey, which is essentially a visual inspection of the property, and a refurbishment/demolition survey, which is more invasive and comprehensive. While a management survey is useful for identifying ACMs that pose a risk to occupants or visitors, a refurbishment/demolition survey is required when significant refurbishment or demolition work is planned.

Asbestos Areas in Converted Houses

When a building is converted, the chance of ACMs increases, as different materials are often used during the conversion process. Common areas in converted houses that may contain asbestos include:

Roofing and ceiling tiles

Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials and ceiling tiles in the past due to its fire-resistant and sound-dampening properties. Roofing and ceiling tiles are particularly susceptible to weathering and damage, which may release asbestos fibers into the air.

Insulation

Asbestos insulation can be found in cavity walls, loft spaces, and pipe lagging. These areas are often difficult to access and carry a high risk of ACM disturbance during maintenance or repair work.

Floor tiles

Vinyl floor tiles and their adhesive often contain asbestos, particularly in houses built before the 1980s. Damage to the tiles during renovations or repair work could release asbestos fibers.

Boiler and central heating systems

Asbestos was commonly used in boiler and central heating systems due to its insulating properties. Pipes, boiler casings, and insulation materials may contain asbestos fibers.

Who is Responsible for Asbestos Survey

In a large building, such as an office block or communal space, the responsibility for managing asbestos falls to the building owner, landlord, or property management company. As a landlord or owner, you must ensure that any asbestos-related risks are assessed and managed, and provide information to tenants about the presence of ACMs in the building.

However, the situation becomes more complex in a converted house, as it may not be clear who is ultimately responsible for asbestos management. The person carrying out the conversion work should have commissioned an asbestos survey prior to starting the work. It is their responsibility to ensure that any ACMs are removed or managed safely.

Does a Converted House Require an Asbestos Survey in Devon?

Under current UK regulations, all commercial and non-domestic properties built before the year 2000 must have an asbestos survey carried out. However, there is no legal requirement for homeowners or landlords of domestic properties to commission an asbestos survey. Domestic properties, including converted houses, are exempt from asbestos regulations, unless the owner or landlord uses them for business purposes.

If you rent out a converted house, you may have a duty of care under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, to make sure that the property is safe for your tenants to live in, including identifying and managing any ACMs. However, you do not need to commission a full asbestos survey, and you can manage the risk through a visual inspection.

How to Manage Asbestos in Converted Houses

If you suspect that your converted house contains ACMs, the first step is to carry out a visual inspection. This is a simple and effective way to identify any materials that may contain asbestos, and assess their condition. You should document your findings, and provide this information to any future occupants or visitors of the property.

If you identify any ACMs, you should manage them rather than remove them, as removal can cause a significant release of fibers into the air. Instead, you should put in place a plan to monitor and control the ACMs, including maintaining them in good condition, regularly checking for any damage or deterioration, and keeping a record of any work carried out on the materials.

If you need to carry out work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials, you should seek expert advice and arrange for a licensed asbestos removal company to safely remove the material.

Why Choose Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we offer asbestos survey and removal services throughout Devon and the South West of England. Our experienced team of qualified and licensed asbestos specialists provides affordable and efficient services for both domestic and commercial properties.

We have a wealth of experience in managing asbestos-containing materials, from visual inspections to full-service removal and disposal. With a focus on health and safety, we provide a comprehensive service that puts your health and wellbeing first. Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about our services and how we can help you safely manage asbestos in your converted house.