Does A Refurbishment and Demolition Survey Identify All Asbestos in Sussex?

Asbestos is a dangerous material that can cause severe health problems when inhaled. It was commonly used in building materials until the late 1990s when it was banned due to its hazardous properties. However, old buildings that were constructed before the ban may still contain asbestos. This poses a risk to anyone who comes into contact with it, especially during refurbishment or demolition works.

When it comes to managing asbestos in buildings, surveys are necessary to identify the presence of the material. Refurbishment and demolition surveys are specifically designed to locate any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that may be disturbed during renovation or demolition works. This article will explore whether a refurbishment and demolition survey can identify all asbestos in Sussex.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a reputable asbestos survey company based in Sussex. With a team of experienced professionals and state-of-the-art equipment, we provide reliable asbestos survey services to businesses and homeowners in Sussex and the surrounding areas.

We are committed to providing our clients with affordable and high-quality services, ensuring that their properties are safe and asbestos-free. We offer a range of services, including asbestos surveys, management plans, and asbestos removal, to suit your specific needs.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that contains fibrous material. It was extensively used in the construction industry due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it was found to be toxic when inhaled, causing severe health conditions, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

There are many types of asbestos, including chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. Chrysotile is the most common type of asbestos found in buildings, accounting for over 90% of all asbestos in the UK.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a comprehensive inspection of a property to determine if it contains any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). It is a legal requirement for all non-domestic buildings to have an asbestos survey carried out, and it is essential for homeowners who are planning renovation or demolition works.

There are two types of asbestos surveys, management surveys and refurbishment and demolition surveys. Management surveys are designed to identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials within a building. Refurbishment and demolition surveys are carried out before renovation or demolition works to identify any ACMs that may be disturbed or damaged during the works.

What is a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey?

A refurbishment and demolition survey is specifically designed to identify any ACMs that may be disturbed during renovation or demolition works. It is a more intrusive survey than a management survey, as it involves destructive inspection to access areas that may be hidden.

During a refurbishment and demolition survey, the surveying team will inspect all accessible areas of the building to determine the presence, location, and condition of all ACMs. This includes inspecting areas that may be hidden, such as above ceilings, within walls, and under floors.

Can a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey Identify all Asbestos?

Although a refurbishment and demolition survey is designed to identify all ACMs that may be disturbed during renovation or demolition works, it may not identify all asbestos in a building. This is because some areas may be inaccessible, or the asbestos-containing materials may be hidden.

Furthermore, a refurbishment and demolition survey does not identify asbestos in non-surveyed parts of a building. Therefore, it is essential to have a management survey carried out to identify any asbestos in non-surveyed parts of a building.

Why is it Important to Identify all Asbestos?

It is crucial to identify all asbestos-containing materials in a building before carrying out any renovation or demolition works. This is because asbestos can be dangerous when disturbed or damaged, releasing toxic fibers into the air. If inhaled, these fibers can cause severe health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Furthermore, failure to identify all asbestos in a building can result in legal penalties and fines. It is a legal requirement to have an asbestos survey carried out and to manage any asbestos-containing materials present in a building.

How Can Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex Help?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we provide comprehensive asbestos surveying services to identify and manage all asbestos in your property. Our experienced surveying teams are trained to inspect all areas of a building, including those that may be hidden or inaccessible.

We will provide you with an asbestos register and management plan, outlining the location, condition, and type of all asbestos-containing materials in your property. We can also provide asbestos removal services to ensure your property is safe and free from asbestos.

Contact us today on 01273 978238, email us at [email protected], or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk to find out how we can help.