Can You Rent A Building Without An Asbestos Management Survey In Sussex?

If you are a landlord or a tenant in Sussex, it is important to be aware of the regulations around asbestos when it comes to renting a building. Asbestos can be a serious health hazard and landlords have a responsibility to manage it effectively in their properties. However, many people are unsure as to whether they can rent a building without an asbestos management survey in Sussex. In this article, we will explore the subject in detail and provide you with all the information you need to ensure you are compliant with regulations.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry from the 1950s until the 1980s. It was valued for its fire-resistant properties and was often used in roofs, walls, and insulation. However, it was later discovered that asbestos can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos is now banned in the UK, but many buildings still contain asbestos materials. It is estimated that around half a million non-domestic buildings in the UK still contain asbestos.

The Duty to Manage Asbestos

If you are a landlord, you have a legal duty to manage asbestos in your properties. This duty arises under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, which place a duty on those in control of premises to manage the risk of asbestos. The duty applies to all non-domestic properties, including shops, offices, warehouses, and factories.

The duty to manage asbestos involves:

• Identifying the presence of asbestos
• Assessing the risk posed by asbestos
• Preparing a written plan to manage the risk
• Implementing the plan and monitoring its effectiveness
• Providing information to anyone who is likely to disturb asbestos

Asbestos Survey

In order to comply with the duty to manage asbestos, landlords are required to carry out an asbestos management survey. An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection of a property where samples are taken of suspected asbestos-containing materials. The samples are then analysed in a laboratory to determine whether they contain asbestos.

There are two types of asbestos survey:

• Asbestos Management Survey
• Asbestos Refurbishment / Demolition Survey

An Asbestos Management Survey is carried out to identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials within the building. This type of survey is required for all non-domestic properties.

An Asbestos Refurbishment / Demolition Survey is more extensive and is required where refurbishment or demolition work is planned. This survey is more intrusive and involves accessing all areas of the building to identify any asbestos-containing materials that may be disturbed during the works.

Can You Rent A Building Without An Asbestos Management Survey?

The short answer is no. If you are a landlord in Sussex, you cannot rent a building without an asbestos management survey. The law is clear that landlords have a duty to manage asbestos in their properties and to maintain an up-to-date asbestos management plan. Failure to comply with this duty is a criminal offence and can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.

If you are a tenant in Sussex, it is important to ensure that your landlord has carried out an asbestos management survey and has a plan in place to manage any asbestos-containing materials. You have a right to ask your landlord for this information and they must provide it to you. If they fail to do so, you can make a complaint to the local authority.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are experts in asbestos surveying and removal. We provide a comprehensive service to landlords and tenants in Sussex, ensuring that they are compliant with the regulations and safe from the risks posed by asbestos.

Our team of trained surveyors will carry out an asbestos management survey of your property, identifying any asbestos-containing materials and providing you with a detailed report. We can also provide an asbestos management plan to help you manage the risk going forward.

If asbestos is identified in your property, we can provide a full asbestos removal service. Our team of professionals will ensure that any asbestos-containing materials are removed safely and disposed of in accordance with the regulations.

If you are a landlord or tenant in Sussex, contact us today to arrange an asbestos management survey. We are committed to providing a high-quality, affordable service and ensuring that your property is safe and compliant with the regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are a landlord or tenant in Sussex, it is important to be aware of the regulations around asbestos in rental properties. Landlords have a duty to manage asbestos in their properties and to carry out an asbestos management survey. Failure to comply with this duty is a criminal offence and can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex can help you comply with the regulations and ensure that your property is safe from the risks posed by asbestos. Contact us today to arrange an asbestos management survey and to discuss your requirements.