Asbestos is a natural mineral that was extensively used in construction materials such as roofing, flooring, insulation, and cement until the mid-1980s. It was valued for its durability, heat resistance, and insulation properties. However, asbestos fibers are also highly hazardous to human health when inhaled, as they can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Therefore, the UK government has banned the use of asbestos in all forms since 1999 and requires that any property constructed or refurbished before this date must have an asbestos survey to identify if there is any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) present.

Asbestos surveys are the best way to find out if asbestos is present in your property, how much there is, what condition it is in, and where it is located. There are two types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

• Management Asbestos Surveys: This type of survey is a non-intrusive inspection to identify any ACMs that are likely to be encountered during normal occupation and use of the building. It involves sampling and analysis of suspected ACMs, and a report detailing the location, condition, and risk assessment of each identified asbestos-containing material. Management asbestos surveys are required for all non-domestic buildings constructed before 2000, and for domestic properties where renovation or refurbishment is planned.

• Refurbishment and Demolition Asbestos Surveys: This type of survey is more intrusive than the management survey, and is required before any refurbishment or demolition work is undertaken. It involves a thorough inspection of all areas of the building that will be affected by the work, and is intended to identify any hidden ACMs that may be disturbed during the work. The survey includes destructive inspection techniques to access areas that may be difficult to reach, and samples of suspected ACMs are taken for laboratory analysis. The refurbishment and demolition asbestos survey report includes detailed information about the type, location, and condition of all ACMs in the areas of the building being surveyed, as well as recommendations for safe removal or encapsulation of the asbestos.