How Often Should I Have An Asbestos Survey In Devon?

Asbestos was commonly used in the construction of buildings until the 1980s, and it can still be found in many residential and commercial properties in Devon and throughout the UK. Due to the potential health hazards associated with asbestos exposure, it is essential for property owners and managers to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials in their buildings. This is where asbestos surveys come in.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we are a trusted asbestos survey company in Devon that provides comprehensive asbestos surveys to help property owners identify and properly manage asbestos-containing materials in their buildings. In this article, we will answer the question, "How often should I have an asbestos survey in Devon?" and discuss the importance of regular asbestos surveys for property management and maintenance.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were commonly used in building materials due to their heat and fire-resistant properties. Asbestos fibers are strong and durable, making them ideal for use in insulation, roofing, flooring, and other construction materials. However, exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos surveys are a crucial part of managing asbestos-containing materials in buildings. Asbestos surveys involve a thorough inspection of a building to identify any materials that contain asbestos. If asbestos-containing materials are found, the survey will also assess their condition and provide recommendations on how to manage or remove the asbestos.

Regular asbestos surveys are essential for property owners and managers to identify any changes or deterioration in asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos materials that are in good condition may not be hazardous, but if they become damaged or deteriorate, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, which can be inhaled by building occupants.

Asbestos surveys are also required by law for certain types of buildings. According to UK law, non-domestic buildings built before 2000 must have an asbestos survey to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials. Domestic properties do not require an asbestos survey, but if the property was built before 2000, it is still recommended to have an asbestos survey to ensure the safety of occupants.

Different Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are different types of asbestos surveys that can be conducted depending on the type of building and the level of asbestos risk. The most common types of asbestos surveys include management surveys, refurbishment surveys, and demolition surveys.

A management survey is the most common type of asbestos survey and is designed to identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials that could be disturbed during normal occupancy or routine maintenance activities. A management survey is required for all non-domestic buildings and should be carried out every two to three years or whenever there is a significant change to the building.

A refurbishment survey is a more intrusive survey that is required before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place in a building. The survey is designed to identify and manage all asbestos-containing materials that could be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition process. A refurbishment survey should be carried out before any refurbishment work begins.

A demolition survey is required before any demolition work takes place in a building. The survey is designed to identify and manage all asbestos-containing materials that could be disturbed during the demolition process. A demolition survey should be carried out before any demolition work begins.

How Often Should I Have an Asbestos Survey?

The frequency of asbestos surveys depends on the type of building and the level of asbestos risk. As mentioned earlier, management surveys should be carried out every two to three years or whenever there is a significant change to the building. Refurbishment surveys and demolition surveys should be carried out before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place.

In addition to regular surveys, property owners and managers should also conduct visual inspections of asbestos-containing materials on a regular basis. Visual inspections can help identify any changes or deterioration in asbestos-containing materials between surveys.

Conclusion

Regular asbestos surveys are essential for property owners and managers to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials in their buildings. Asbestos surveys should be carried out every two to three years or whenever there is a significant change to the building. Refurbishment and demolition surveys should be carried out before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a trusted asbestos survey company in Devon that provides comprehensive asbestos surveys to help property owners identify and properly manage asbestos-containing materials in their buildings. Contact us today on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to schedule an asbestos survey and ensure the safety of your building occupants.