An asbestos survey is a thorough inspection of a building or site to identify whether asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present and assess their condition and risks. If ACMs are found, the survey report will recommend appropriate management or removal actions to reduce the risks of exposure. There are two types of asbestos surveys: Management and Refurbishment/Demolition (RD) surveys.

A Management survey is the most common type of survey and is required for all non-domestic properties built before 2000. It aims to locate and assess the condition of ACMs that are likely to be disturbed during normal occupancy, maintenance, or minor repair work. The survey report will include a management plan to prevent or monitor any disturbance of the identified ACMs and provide an asbestos register for the property.

An RD survey is required before any refurbishment or demolition works can take place on a property built before 2000. It is more intrusive and covers all areas that will be affected by the works. It aims to locate all ACMs, including those that may be hidden or hard to access, and assess their condition and risks. The survey report will recommend appropriate removal or encapsulation measures before any works start.