How Often Is An Asbestos Survey Needed In Sussex?

Asbestos is a dangerous, fibrous mineral that was commonly used in building materials until the mid-1980s. When disturbed, it releases tiny fibers that can cause lung damage and cancer if inhaled. Sussex is known for being one of the areas in the UK where asbestos was most heavily used in construction. This makes it very important for property owners and tenants to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos, and to take appropriate measures to manage or remove it.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are an asbestos survey company in Sussex that offers management and building surveys to help property owners and tenants identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on their premises. In this landing page, we will discuss the importance of asbestos surveys, when they are required, and how often you should have one done.

What is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is a detailed inspection of a building or property to identify any ACMs that may be present. The survey will usually involve taking samples of suspect materials, which are then analyzed in a laboratory to determine if they contain asbestos. The survey report will identify the location and condition of any ACMs found, and will provide recommendations for managing or removing them.

There are two types of asbestos surveys: management surveys and refurbishment/demolition surveys.

Management Survey

A management survey is the less intrusive of the two types of surveys, and is intended to identify any ACMs that may be present in a building or property that could become damaged or disturbed during normal use. The survey involves a visual inspection of the property, followed by the taking of samples of any suspect materials. The samples are then analyzed in a laboratory to determine if they contain asbestos.

If ACMs are identified, the survey report will provide recommendations for managing them, which may include regular inspections and monitoring, encapsulation, or removal.

Refurbishment/Demolition Survey

A refurbishment/demolition survey is a more intrusive survey, and is required prior to any work that will disturb the fabric of a building or property. This type of survey is necessary to identify any ACMs that may be present in areas that are going to be disturbed or removed.

The survey will involve a detailed inspection of the property, and may require the removal of some building materials in order to gain access to hidden areas. The survey report will identify any ACMs found, and will provide recommendations for their removal before any work can proceed.

When is an Asbestos Survey Required?

An asbestos survey may be required for a variety of reasons, including:

• Before purchasing a property
• Before carrying out any building work, such as renovations, refurbishments or demolitions
• After damage to a property, such as a fire or flood
• Before letting or selling a property

It is important to note that it is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that an asbestos survey is carried out when necessary. Failure to do so can result in legal action and fines.

How Often Should an Asbestos Survey Be Done?

The frequency with which an asbestos survey should be carried out will depend on a number of factors, such as the age and condition of the property, and the likelihood of ACMs being present. As a general rule, however, a management survey should be carried out at least once every two years, or if there is any reason to suspect that ACMs may have been disturbed or damaged.

A refurbishment/demolition survey will only be required prior to work that is likely to disturb or damage the fabric of a building or property. This type of survey does not need to be carried out on a regular basis, but only as and when it is required.

It is important to note that asbestos surveys are not a one-time solution. The results of a survey will become outdated over time, as the condition of the property or the materials within it change. Therefore, it is recommended that property owners have surveys carried out periodically to ensure that any new ACMs are identified and managed appropriately.

Why Choose Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex?

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we have a team of experienced and qualified asbestos surveyors who can carry out management and refurbishment/demolition surveys to the highest standards. Our surveys are thorough and detailed, and our reports provide clear recommendations for managing or removing any ACMs found.

We understand the importance of identifying and managing asbestos, and we are committed to providing our clients with a reliable and affordable service. Our prices are competitive, and we offer a no-obligation quote for all of our services.

If you are in need of an asbestos survey in Sussex or the South East of England, or if you have any questions about managing or removing asbestos from your property, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01273 978238 or at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk for more information about our services.