Do I Need Asbestos Survey For A Domestic Extension In Hampshire?

Asbestos was a popular building material in the past due to its fire-resistant properties and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers can cause severe lung diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Therefore, the government enacted regulations to limit the use of asbestos in new construction projects and require the removal of existing asbestos materials in buildings. This means that if you are planning a domestic extension in Hampshire, you need to know whether your property contains asbestos and whether it needs to be removed before the construction process begins.

In this landing page, we will explore the importance of asbestos surveys, its risks and management, and how Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire can help you ensure the safety of your home project.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials until the 1990s. It was used in pipes, insulation, roofing, flooring, and other building materials. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed or damaged, they release fibers into the air that can be inhaled by people and animals.

The inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases. Therefore, it is essential to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials in buildings.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is an inspection of a building to determine if there are any asbestos-containing materials present. The survey will identify the location, type, and condition of ACMs in the building. There are two types of asbestos surveys: Management Survey and Refurbishment/Demolition Survey.

Management Survey

A Management Survey aims to locate and assess asbestos-containing materials in a building that may be disturbed during normal occupancy or maintenance work. This survey is the minimum required by law for non-domestic properties.

It is recommended for homeowners to have a Management Survey before any building work to ensure the safety of contractors and homeowners. This will also help homeowners to identify the presence of ACMs and manage them in the future.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A Refurbishment/Demolition Survey is a much more intrusive survey that is required before any refurbishment or demolition work is carried out in a building. This survey looks more closely at the materials in the building and requires reaching previously inaccessible areas like inside walls or under floors.

How Do I Manage Asbestos Risk?

Asbestos-containing materials are safe when they are in good condition and not disturbed. However, when they are damaged, asbestos fibers are released into the air and can be inhaled. Therefore, it is essential to manage ACMs in a building.

The following is a quick guide to managing asbestos risk:

• Identify: Have an asbestos survey to identify the location and type of ACMs in a building.

• Assess: Determine the risk of ACMs based on their location, condition, and accessibility.

• Manage: Develop an asbestos management plan to control the risk of ACMs.

• Monitor: Regularly inspect ACMs to ensure they remain in good condition and undisturbed.

• Review: Review the asbestos management plan regularly to ensure it is up-to-date and effective.

Why Use Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire is a professional asbestos survey company in Hampshire. We offer a range of asbestos-related services, including asbestos surveys, asbestos removal, and asbestos management plans.

We employ fully-trained and licensed asbestos surveyors who have many years of experience in surveying all types of properties. We use the latest equipment to conduct surveys, and we adhere to HSE guidelines and regulations.

Our asbestos survey reports are delivered promptly and are easy to understand, containing detailed information on the location, type and condition of ACMs, and recommendations for management. We can also offer comprehensive asbestos management plans to meet your obligations under health and safety regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are planning a domestic extension in Hampshire, it is vital that you know whether your property contains asbestos and whether it needs to be managed or removed before construction work begins. A professional asbestos survey is the best way to identify and manage ACMs in a building.

Contact us today at Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to schedule an asbestos survey or to discuss further how we can help you ensure the safety of your home project. We serve Hampshire and the South East of England.