Do I Need An Asbestos Survey When Buying A House In Devon?

If you are considering buying a house in Devon, it is important to be aware of the potential presence of asbestos. Asbestos is a dangerous material that was commonly used in construction until 1999, and can be found in a wide range of materials throughout the home. Failure to identify and remove asbestos can put your health and safety at risk, and can also result in expensive repairs and remediation.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are a leading asbestos removal company in Devon, South West England. We have extensive experience in providing comprehensive asbestos surveys for properties of all types and sizes, and can help you determine whether an asbestos survey is necessary when buying a house in Devon.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing for many decades due to its strength and heat resistance. It was commonly used in insulation, flooring, roofing, and a wide range of other building materials. However, due to its dangerous health effects, asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999.

When asbestos is disturbed or damaged, it can release tiny asbestos fibers into the air, which can be easily inhaled. These fibers can become trapped in the lungs, and over time can cause a range of serious health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

What Is An Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a property to identify the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The survey is typically conducted by a qualified professional, and involves a visual inspection of the property as well as the collection of samples for laboratory analysis.

Asbestos surveys are typically carried out prior to renovation or demolition work, but they are also important when buying a house in Devon. A survey can help you identify any potential asbestos hazards in the property, and may also be required by your mortgage lender or insurance company.

Common Asbestos-Containing Materials

Asbestos can be found in a wide range of materials throughout the home, including:

• Insulation: Asbestos was commonly used in ceiling and floor insulation, as well as in pipe and duct insulation.
• Tiles: Asbestos can be found in vinyl and linoleum floor tiles, as well as in ceiling tiles and textured coatings.
• Roofing: Asbestos was commonly used in roofing materials, including shingles and corrugated sheets.
• Putties and sealants: Asbestos can be found in putties and sealants used for windows, pipes, and other fixtures.
• Common building materials: Asbestos was also commonly used in cement, plaster, and other building materials.

Why Do I Need An Asbestos Survey When Buying A House In Devon?

When buying a house in Devon, an asbestos survey is a crucial step in ensuring the safety of the property. The survey will identify any potential asbestos-containing materials that may be present in the property, and can help you make informed decisions about repairs, renovations, and maintenance.

If asbestos is present in the home, you may be able to negotiate a lower sale price or obtain compensation from the seller for remediation costs. This can help ensure that you are not stuck with unexpected expenses after purchasing the property.

Additionally, if you are planning to undertake any renovation or maintenance work in the home, an asbestos survey is a legal requirement. Renovations or repairs without an asbestos survey can put you and others at risk, and can result in legal repercussions.

How Can Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon Help?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are a leading provider of asbestos surveys for residential properties in Devon and the surrounding areas. We have years of experience in identifying and removing asbestos, and can provide a comprehensive survey of your prospective home to ensure that you are aware of any potential asbestos hazards.

Our team of qualified professionals use the latest technology and testing methods to identify asbestos in your property, and can provide detailed reports and recommendations for remediation if necessary. We understand the importance of ensuring the safety of your property and your health, and will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you have the information you need to make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering buying a house in Devon, it is important to be aware of the potential presence of asbestos. An asbestos survey is an essential step in ensuring the safety of your property and your health, and can also help you make informed decisions about repairs, maintenance, and renovations.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are committed to providing comprehensive asbestos surveys for residential properties in Devon and the surrounding areas. Contact us today at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment.