When Do I Need an Asbestos Survey in Devon?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively used in construction and other industries in the past. However, it has been linked to various health issues, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, and its use has been heavily regulated since the 1980s. If you own or manage a property in Devon, it's important to know when you need an asbestos survey to ensure the safety of anyone who may be exposed to the material.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos survey company in Devon that can help you determine whether your property contains asbestos and how to manage any risks effectively. In this guide, we'll explain what asbestos is, when you need an asbestos survey, and what to expect from the process.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of minerals that are fibrous and heat-resistant, making them ideal for various industrial applications. It was commonly used in the construction industry to reinforce cement, insulate buildings, and fireproof structures. Asbestos was also used in household products such as insulation, roofing, and flooring.

However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health issues, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. The risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to its ban in many countries, including the UK. However, many buildings constructed before 2000 may still contain asbestos.

When Do You Need an Asbestos Survey?

If you own or manage a property in Devon, you may need an asbestos survey under various circumstances. The type of survey required will depend on the nature of the property and its intended use.

Domestic Properties

If you own a residential property built before 2000, you may need an asbestos survey if you're planning any renovations or repairs that may disturb the fabric of the building. This includes cutting into walls or ceilings, drilling holes, or removing materials that may contain asbestos, such as roofing sheets or insulation.

An asbestos survey will help you determine whether there is any asbestos in the property and how to manage the risks effectively. If asbestos is present, you will need to arrange for its safe removal before any renovation or repair work can proceed.

Non-Domestic Properties

If you own or manage a non-domestic property, such as a commercial or industrial building, an asbestos survey may be required under the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012.

CAR 2012 requires duty holders to manage the risks associated with asbestos in non-domestic buildings, including identifying its location and condition, assessing the risk of exposure, and developing a management plan to control the risks.

To comply with CAR 2012, you will need to arrange for an asbestos survey that identifies the location and condition of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building. The survey will also assess the risk of exposure to the ACMs and recommend appropriate actions to manage the risks, such as removal or encapsulation.

Properties Built After 2000

If your property was built after 2000, it is unlikely to contain asbestos as its use was banned in the UK in 1999. However, if you're unsure whether your property contains asbestos, you may still request an asbestos survey for your peace of mind.

Asbestos Survey Types

There are two main types of asbestos survey: management survey and refurbishment/demolition survey. The type of survey required will depend on the nature of the property and its intended use.

Management Survey

A management survey is the most common type of asbestos survey and is required under CAR 2012 for non-domestic properties. Its purpose is to identify the presence, location, and condition of any ACMs in the building that could be disturbed during normal occupancy or maintenance activities.

During a management survey, the surveyor will visually inspect the property and take samples of suspected materials, which will be analysed in a laboratory for the presence of asbestos. The survey report will outline the location and condition of any ACMs and provide recommendations for managing the risks associated with them.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A refurbishment/demolition survey is required when you're planning any major refurbishment or demolition work that may disturb the fabric of the building. Its purpose is to identify all ACMs in the area where the work is planned and recommend appropriate actions for their safe removal.

During a refurbishment/demolition survey, the surveyor will take samples of all suspected materials in the area and analyse them in a laboratory for the presence of asbestos. The survey report will outline the location, type, and condition of all ACMs and provide recommendations for their safe removal.

Asbestos Testing

If you suspect that your property contains asbestos, you may request an asbestos testing service to confirm its presence. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon offers a comprehensive asbestos testing service that involves taking samples of suspected materials and analysing them in a UKAS-accredited laboratory.

Our asbestos testing service is quick, reliable, and cost-effective. We provide a detailed report of the results and recommend appropriate actions if asbestos is found.

Reasons to Choose Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a leading asbestos survey company in Devon that offers a wide range of asbestos-related services to domestic and non-domestic clients. Here are some reasons why you should choose us:

• All our surveyors are BOHS P402 certified and have extensive experience in asbestos surveying and management.
• We use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure accurate and reliable results.
• We provide a comprehensive asbestos testing service that conforms to UKAS standards.
• Our survey reports are detailed, easy to understand, and include photos and diagrams for clarity.
• We offer competitive prices that reflect the quality of our service.
• We provide free, no-obligation quotes for all our services.
• We're based in Devon and cover the whole of the South West of England.
• We're fully insured and comply with all relevant health and safety legislation.

Our Process

Our asbestos survey process is simple and straightforward. Here's what to expect:

1. Contact us by phone, email, or through our website to request a free, no-obligation quote.
2. We'll discuss your requirements and recommend the most appropriate type of survey.
3. We'll arrange a convenient time to visit your property and conduct the survey.
4. Our surveyor will visually inspect the property and take samples of suspected materials, if necessary.
5. We'll analyse the samples in a UKAS-accredited laboratory and prepare a detailed report of the results.
6. We'll provide the survey report to you and discuss any recommended actions.
7. If asbestos removal is required, we can provide a competitive quote for our removal services.

Pack Projects

If you're planning a large-scale renovation or demolition project that involves asbestos, we offer pack projects that include asbestos survey, testing, removal, and disposal services. Our pack projects are designed to provide a comprehensive and cost-effective solution to all your asbestos-related needs.

Final Thoughts

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can pose serious health risks if not managed properly. If you own or manage a property in Devon, it's essential to know when you need an asbestos survey and how to manage any risks effectively.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos survey company in Devon that can help you identify whether your property contains asbestos and recommend appropriate actions for its safe management. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.