Is Asbestos Survey Requirements Selling Commercial Property in Sussex?

If you're selling commercial property in Sussex, you may be wondering whether you need to provide an asbestos survey. The answer is, in most cases, yes. The health and safety of everyone occupying the building should be of the utmost importance, and that includes protecting them from asbestos exposure.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are an asbestos survey company in Sussex that can provide asbestos surveys for commercial properties. In this article, we will dive deeper into what asbestos is, why it is a health and safety concern, and why it's important to have an asbestos survey before selling or renting a commercial property.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction due to its durability, heat resistance, and fireproofing capabilities. It was commonly used in insulation, roofing, flooring, and many other building materials.

Unfortunately, asbestos is also highly toxic and dangerous when disturbed. When asbestos fibers are released into the air, they can be inhaled and cause serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Safety Regulations and Health Concerns

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website has a comprehensive guide on asbestos and its dangers. Asbestos was used in properties built prior to the year 2000 and as such, it poses a risk of exposure to anyone that comes into contact with its fibers. Managing asbestos in buildings and construction sites is therefore critical to the health and safety of the workers, visitors, and occupants of the property.

According to the HSE, an asbestos survey is usually the first step to identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building or property. The survey provides property managers and owners with in-depth information about the location and condition of ACMs. This information is crucial in ensuring the health and safety of those within the property, and it also helps property owners comply with asbestos regulations.

Asbestos Survey Requirements for Commercial Property Sellers in Sussex

If you are selling commercial property in Sussex, you need to provide an asbestos survey before completion. Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, it is illegal to rent, lease, or sell a property without an in-date asbestos survey report. This applies to all commercial properties, including shops, warehouses, and offices.

The law requires the seller to supply a copy of the asbestos survey report to the buyer, as it is their duty to manage any potential asbestos exposure risks. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in substantial financial penalties, legal action, and even imprisonment.

The Need for Asbestos Surveys in Commercial Properties

Many commercial properties were built before the year 2000, which means that they likely contain asbestos-containing materials. As such, any property built or refurbished before 2000 may contain asbestos.

Additionally, in the construction industry, asbestos-containing materials were added to various building products to increase their durability and fire-resistance. These materials could include roofing sheets, lagging, and insulation.

An asbestos survey is needed to identify and assess the risks of asbestos-containing materials in the property. The survey report will also detail the measures necessary to manage and control asbestos risks, protecting the health and safety of those occupying the property.

The Role of Asbestos Surveyors

Asbestos surveyors play a vital role in the management of asbestos containing materials. Under HSE guidance, asbestos surveyors must be competent to undertake surveys safely and report accurately.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we have a team of qualified asbestos surveyors who can provide asbestos surveys for commercial properties in Sussex. Our surveyors use state-of-the-art equipment and follow strict safety protocols to identify and manage any potential asbestos exposure risks.

Asbestos Survey Cost

The cost of an asbestos survey can vary depending on the size, type, and location of the commercial property. However, the investment is well worth it as it provides essential information about the potential risks of asbestos exposure in the property.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we aim to provide cost-effective asbestos survey solutions for commercial property owners in Sussex. We believe that protecting the health and safety of everyone in the property is paramount and we strive to deliver our services at a reasonable cost.

Conclusion

If you're selling or renting commercial property in Sussex, it's important to have an asbestos survey. Not only is it required by law, but it provides vital information about the potential risks of asbestos exposure in the property.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are committed to providing asbestos survey solutions for commercial properties in Sussex. Our team of qualified surveyors uses state-of-the-art equipment to identify and manage any potential asbestos exposure risks.

For more information about our asbestos survey services, or to book a survey, contact us today at 01273 978238 or visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk. Don't put people's health at risk - get an asbestos survey for your commercial property today!