Does A Building Survey Check For Asbestos In Sussex?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in the construction industry due to its fire-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers, when inhaled, could cause various health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

For this reason, the use of asbestos in building materials was banned in the UK in 1999. However, many buildings constructed before this date may still contain asbestos, and it's essential to determine its presence to ensure the safety of occupants and workers during building renovation, demolition, or maintenance.

In this article, we will explore whether a building survey checks for asbestos in Sussex and highlight the importance of asbestos survey and management.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex: A Trusted Asbestos Survey Company in Sussex

Before delving into whether a building survey checks for asbestos in Sussex, let's introduce ourselves. We are Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, a professional asbestos survey and removal company serving Sussex and the surrounding areas.

We have years of experience in identifying and managing asbestos in various properties, from residential homes to commercial buildings. We are dedicated to providing our clients with safe and efficient asbestos removal services at affordable prices.

If you suspect that your building may have asbestos, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of accredited asbestos surveyors is always ready to conduct a comprehensive survey to identify the presence and extent of asbestos in the building.

You can contact us by phone at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk for more information about our services.

Asbestos Materials in the House

Asbestos was widely used in various building materials, and if your house was built before the year 2000, there is a high likelihood that it contains asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Some common ACMs found in houses include:

• Roof tiles and shingles
• Insulation materials, including pipe lagging and sprayed coatings
• Floor and ceiling tiles
• Artex ceilings and walls
• Textured coatings, such as popcorn ceiling
• Cement products like gutters and downpipes
• Electrical fuse boxes and switchboards
• Fireplaces and chimneys

These materials are generally safe if left undisturbed. However, when they are disturbed, such as during building work, renovation, or repair, they can release asbestos fibers into the air, which can pose a significant risk to human health.

Importance of Asbestos Survey and Management

Asbestos survey and management are crucial to ensuring the safety of occupants and workers in buildings that may contain asbestos. An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection of a building to identify the presence, location, and condition of ACMs. The survey will also assess the risk of asbestos exposure and provide guidance on how to manage or remove the ACMs safely.

Asbestos management involves implementing measures to minimize the risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. This includes creating an asbestos register, conducting regular inspections and monitoring, and developing an asbestos management plan.

Asbestos Risks and Safety

Asbestos is a hazardous substance that poses significant health risks if inhaled. The risks of asbestos exposure depend on various factors, including the type and condition of asbestos, the exposure duration, and the individual's susceptibility.

Asbestos exposure can lead to several health problems, including:

• Mesothelioma - a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and chest
• Lung cancer - which may develop years after inhaling asbestos fibers
• Asbestosis - a chronic condition that affects the lungs

The risk of developing these diseases depends on the concentration and duration of asbestos exposure. However, it's essential to note that there is no safe level of asbestos exposure, and even brief exposure can lead to long-term health problems.

Does A Building Survey Check For Asbestos in Sussex?

A building survey is a comprehensive inspection of a property to identify any potential issues, including structural damages, dampness, and other defects. However, a building survey typically does not include an asbestos survey.

If you suspect that your building may contain asbestos, you need to conduct a specific asbestos survey. The type of survey needed depends on the property's age, condition, and other factors. The two main types of asbestos survey are:

1. Management Survey: This type of survey is a standard inspection of a building to identify the presence and condition of ACMs. The survey aims to assess the risk of exposure to asbestos and provide recommendations for managing or removing the ACMs safely.

2. Refurbishment or Demolition Survey: This survey is more invasive and aims to identify all ACMs in a building, including those hidden behind walls, floors, or ceilings. The survey is necessary before any refurbishment or demolition works to ensure the safety of workers and the public.

Need for Asbestos Survey Before Building Work

If you plan to carry out any building work or renovations, it's essential to conduct an asbestos survey before starting the work. This is because the disturbance of ACMs during the building work can release harmful asbestos fibers into the air, exposing workers and occupants to health risks.

It's crucial to note that failure to conduct an asbestos survey before building work can result in hefty fines and legal issues.

Accredited Asbestos Surveyors in Sussex

Asbestos survey and management are critical tasks that require trained and accredited professionals. Our Asbestos surveyors at Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex are BOHS P402 accredited, ensuring that we provide reliable and accurate asbestos surveys.

We have experience working with different types of buildings, from residential homes to commercial and industrial properties. We follow all safety regulations and guidelines to ensure the safety of our clients and workers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, asbestos is a hazardous substance that poses significant health risks. If you suspect that your building may contain asbestos, it's essential to conduct a comprehensive asbestos survey to identify the presence and extent of the ACMs.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a trusted asbestos survey and removal company in Sussex. Our accredited surveyors are always ready to provide reliable and affordable asbestos surveys to ensure your building's safety.

Contact us today at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected] for a consultation or visit us at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk to learn more about our services.