Do I Need An Asbestos Survey For My Home In Hampshire?

Asbestos is a toxic mineral that was widely used in building materials until the 1980s. It was considered as an ideal material for its strength, durability, and heat resistance. However, the health hazards associated with asbestos exposure were unknown at that time. Today, it is known that asbestos exposure can cause serious respiratory illnesses and even lead to cancer. Many homeowners in Hampshire are understandably concerned about whether they need an asbestos survey for their homes.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is an asbestos survey company in Hampshire that specializes in surveying properties for the presence of asbestos. Our company has been serving Hampshire and the surrounding areas for years and is committed to helping homeowners protect their health and safety.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a wide range of building materials, such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and fireproofing. It became popular in the 19th century due to its heat resistance, strength, and durability. However, it was discovered to be highly toxic and carcinogenic in the 20th century.

When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are damaged or disturbed, they release microscopic fibers that can be inhaled. These fibers can cause a variety of respiratory illnesses, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection of a property to determine whether asbestos-containing materials are present. The survey is usually carried out by a qualified asbestos surveyor who will inspect every part of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, and ceilings.

There are two types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys. Management surveys are usually carried out on occupied buildings to identify asbestos-containing materials and assess their condition. Refurbishment/demolition surveys are carried out before any refurbishment or demolition work is undertaken on a building since these activities can disturb asbestos-containing materials.

Do I Need an Asbestos Survey?

If your property was built before the year 2000, then it is likely that asbestos-containing materials were used in its construction. However, there is no need to panic since not all asbestos-containing materials are dangerous. ACMs that are in good condition and intact do not pose any immediate health risks. However, if they are damaged or disturbed, then they can release asbestos fibers into the air.

If you are planning any refurbishment or demolition work on your property, then you need a refurbishment/demolition survey. Even minor work, such as drilling or cutting into walls, can release asbestos fibers into the air. A refurbishment/demolition survey will identify any ACMs that may be disturbed by the work and assess their condition.

A management survey is recommended for all residential properties, especially those in high-risk areas. Hampshire is known to have suffered from high levels of asbestos-related diseases due to its industrial past. Therefore, homeowners in the area should consider having an asbestos survey to ensure that their homes are free from dangerous materials.

Why is an Asbestos Survey Needed?

An asbestos survey is needed to ensure your safety and the safety of others who may come into contact with your property. Asbestos fibers are invisible to the naked eye and can remain in the air for hours after they have been released. Therefore, it is important to identify any ACMs that may be disturbed and remove them safely.

An asbestos survey will also ensure that you are in compliance with the law. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that every non-domestic property built before the year 2000 have an asbestos survey. However, homeowners are also responsible for ensuring the safety of their properties, and a management survey is recommended for all residential properties.

Asbestos in the UK

Asbestos is a major health concern in the UK due to its widespread use and the long latency period of asbestos-related illnesses. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), asbestos-related diseases cause around 5,000 deaths every year in the UK. This is why it is so important to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials in buildings.

The HSE has strict regulations on how asbestos should be handled and removed by licensed contractors. Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a licensed asbestos removal company that specializes in the safe and efficient removal of asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos-Containing Materials

Asbestos-containing materials can be found in all types of buildings, including residential properties. Some common ACMs include:

• Asbestos insulation board (AIB)
• Asbestos cement products (e.g. roofing sheets, gutters, downpipes)
• Sprayed asbestos coatings (e.g. on steelwork)
• Textured coatings (e.g. Artex)
• Vinyl floor tiles

Asbestos-containing materials can be difficult to identify, which is why an asbestos survey is necessary.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we understand the importance of protecting your health and safety. We are a leading asbestos survey company in Hampshire and specialize in the safe and efficient removal of asbestos-containing materials.

Our team of qualified asbestos surveyors and removal experts has years of experience in the industry and is committed to providing a high-quality service to our customers. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and competitive prices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are a homeowner in Hampshire, it is important to consider having an asbestos survey for your property. Asbestos-containing materials can be present in any property built before the year 2000 and can pose a serious health risk if disturbed. An asbestos survey will identify any ACMs that may be present and assess their condition.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a leading asbestos survey company in Hampshire that is committed to helping you protect your health and safety. Contact us today at 01962 458066 or via email at [email protected] to book your asbestos survey or to find out more information about our services.