Do House Surveyors Do An Asbestos Test In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively used in the construction industry in the UK until the 1980s. However, we now know that it can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. For this reason, it is important to identify if asbestos is present in any building before undertaking any renovation or demolition work.

If you are buying a property in Hampshire, it is essential to ensure that an asbestos survey has been conducted to determine if there is any asbestos present in the building. But do house surveyors do an asbestos test in Hampshire? In this article, we'll explore the topic in-depth and shed light on the different types of asbestos surveys available.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in buildings until its ban in 1999. It is estimated that there are still over 1.5 million commercial and public buildings in the UK that contain some form of asbestos. Asbestos is often found in materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing materials, and pipes.

The presence of asbestos in a building is not necessarily dangerous if the asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are in good condition and remain undisturbed. However, if the ACMs are damaged or disturbed, through renovation or demolition work, they may release fibres into the air. These fibres can be hazardous when inhaled, causing serious illnesses such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

In addition, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires duty holders (including property owners) to identify and manage asbestos in their buildings to prevent exposure to workers and the public. Therefore, if you own or are planning to buy a property in Hampshire, it is essential to ensure that an asbestos survey has been conducted to identify any potential risks.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a thorough examination of a property to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). It is required by law if the building was constructed before 2000 and is due for renovation or demolition. The survey will determine the location, type, and condition of any ACMs, and provide a risk assessment and management plan.

There are two types of asbestos surveys:

Asbestos Management Survey:

An asbestos management survey is a non-intrusive survey that is conducted to identify the location, extent, and condition of any ACMs that may be disturbed during normal occupancy, maintenance, or other work activities. The survey will provide a management plan to prevent or minimize any potential exposure to asbestos fibres.

Asbestos Refurbishment/Demolition Survey:

An asbestos refurbishment/demolition survey is a more intrusive survey that is conducted when a building is due for refurbishment or demolition. The survey will identify all ACMs in the building or the specific areas where the work is to be carried out. The survey will provide a management plan to ensure that all ACMs are removed or encapsulated before any work commences.

An asbestos survey must be conducted by a competent person who is accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) or another recognized accreditation body. Accredited companies will have the knowledge, skills, and equipment required to conduct a thorough survey and provide a comprehensive report.

Do House Surveyors Do An Asbestos Test in Hampshire?

House surveyors do not always conduct asbestos tests during a routine building survey. However, they should advise their clients to commission an asbestos survey if the property was constructed before 2000 and there is a likelihood of the presence of ACMs.

House surveyors are not experts in asbestos, and it is not their responsibility to identify the presence of ACMs during a building survey. Asbestos surveys require specialized training, equipment, and expertise, and it is recommended that a qualified asbestos surveyor is employed to undertake the survey.

Therefore, if you are buying a property in Hampshire, it is essential to ensure that an asbestos survey has been conducted by a qualified and accredited asbestos surveyor before purchase. The cost of an asbestos survey will depend on the size and complexity of the building, but it is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a leading asbestos testing and removal company in Hampshire and the South East of England. We provide a wide range of affordable asbestos-related services, including asbestos surveys, asbestos testing, and asbestos removal.

All our asbestos surveyors are fully trained and accredited by UKAS or another recognized accreditation body. We use the latest equipment and techniques to provide a thorough and comprehensive report, which will identify any potential risks and provide advice on how to manage or remove any ACMs.

If you require an asbestos survey, asbestos testing, or asbestos removal, please contact us on 01962 458066 or at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk to learn more about our services.

Conclusion

Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious illnesses such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. If you are buying a property in Hampshire, it is essential to ensure that an asbestos survey has been conducted by a qualified and accredited asbestos surveyor before purchase.

Remember that house surveyors do not typically conduct asbestos tests during routine building surveys. It is recommended that an accredited asbestos surveyor is employed to undertake the survey, providing a thorough and comprehensive report.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a leading asbestos testing and removal company in Hampshire and the South East of England. If you require an asbestos survey, asbestos testing, or asbestos removal, contact us on 01962 458066 or at [email protected].