An asbestos survey is an inspection of a building that evaluates the presence and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Its purpose is to establish whether there is a risk of asbestos exposure and to identify any areas that require attention. Asbestos surveys can be of different types depending on the purpose, extent, and complexity of the survey. The most common types are management surveys, refurbishment/demolition surveys, and re-inspection surveys.

• Management surveys are intended to identify ACMs in a building that may pose a risk to occupants during normal occupancy and use. It is a legally required survey for all non-domestic buildings built before 2000.
• Refurbishment/demolition surveys, as the name suggests, are required before any refurbishment, renovation or demolition work takes place. It is used to identify asbestos-containing materials that may be disturbed during the work and cause exposure to workers and occupants.
• Re-inspection surveys are carried out periodically (at least every two years) to ensure that ACMs have not deteriorated or been damaged and continue to be managed safely.