How Much Is An Asbestos Home Survey In Devon?

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in construction up until the late 1990s. It poses a significant health risk to those who come into contact with it, as exposure to asbestos fibres can cause a range of health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Undertaking an asbestos survey is an essential step in managing the risk of asbestos exposure within a property. If you are considering purchasing, refurbishing, or demolishing a property in Devon or the South West of England, you may require an asbestos survey to identify any potential asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on the site.

As an asbestos survey company in Devon, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon offers a range of asbestos survey services to help property owners and managers identify and manage the potential risk of asbestos exposure. In this landing page, we will explore the different types of asbestos surveys available, the cost of an asbestos survey in Devon, and why it is essential to undertake an asbestos survey for your property management.

Asbestos and Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry due to its heat resistance, insulation properties, and durability. Unfortunately, asbestos was found to be a carcinogenic material, and when it is damaged or disturbed, it releases tiny fibres that can become airborne and subsequently inhaled by anyone nearby. Once in the lungs, these fibres can cause serious health problems, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that any non-domestic property built before 2000 must have an asbestos survey carried out by a competent person. Domestic properties that are undergoing refurbishment or demolition are also subject to the same regulations.

An asbestos survey is an essential process that involves the identification and assessment of any potential ACMs within a property. This survey type is crucial in determining the condition of ACMs, their potential for damage or disturbance, and any action required to manage or remove the ACMs safely.

There are two types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

Management Surveys

Management surveys are undertaken to identify any ACMs within a property that may pose a risk of exposure to occupants or visitors to the building. This type of survey typically examines a property's accessible areas and any suspected ACMs that may have been identified from previous property records.

The survey results enable the property owner or manager to establish whether there is any risk of exposure to asbestos within their property and decide how to manage the risk effectively. If ACMs are identified in a management survey, they must be managed safely and monitored to avoid any potential disturbance.

Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys

Refurbishment and demolition surveys are more intrusive than management surveys and are required where a property is undergoing renovation, refurbishment, or demolition. The objective of this survey type is to identify all ACMs within the property that may be disturbed during the work.

The surveyors will use more invasive methods to examine the property, such as taking samples of suspected ACMs that are inaccessible and/or concealed areas or making inspection holes in the building fabric, and use specialist equipment to identify materials that may contain asbestos.

Why Undertake an Asbestos Survey?

The primary reason for undertaking an asbestos survey is to identify any potential ACMs within a property to reduce the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres. A survey will also help to keep you and your building users legally compliant with Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

As a property owner or manager, you have a responsibility to ensure that anyone who works on or uses your property is not exposed to asbestos. Failing to exercise due diligence in managing asbestos risk may result in costly litigation or fines, and ultimately, endanger the life of those using the building.

It is, therefore, crucial that an asbestos survey is undertaken to help identify any risks that may exist within your property and to help you manage them effectively.

Asbestos Survey Cost

Asbestos survey costs are dependent on various factors such as the size and type of the property, type of survey required, location, and accessibility. Typically, asbestos survey costs in Devon and the surrounding South West region start at around 150 upwards.

Management surveys are typically less expensive than refurbishment/demolition surveys as they are less invasive and require less material samples.

Refurbishment/demolition surveys can be costly due to the amount of access required, labour costs, and the need to dispose of any identified ACMs safely.

It is crucial to note that asbestos removal and disposal costs are not included in the survey price. The surveyor will indicate whether ACMs pose a significant risk, and if so, recommend appropriate steps to manage or remove them in line with the law.

Takeaway

Asbestos can be a significant health hazard, and as such, identifying and managing any potential ACMs within your property is crucial in protecting the health and safety of those using the building. If you are based in Devon or the South West of England, Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is an asbestos survey company that provides a range of asbestos survey services to help you manage the asbestos risk within your property.

We offer affordable prices, with management surveys starting at 150, and we use state-of-the-art equipment and methods to identify any ACMs within your property. Contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to discuss your requirements and arrange an asbestos survey.