When Do You Need an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey in Sussex?

If you are planning a refurbishment or demolition project for a property built before the year 2000, it is highly likely that it may contain asbestos. Given the hazardous nature of asbestos and its link to lethal diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, it is not something that you should take lightly. It is essential to have a thorough understanding of whether asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are present in your property in order to manage the risks associated with them.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a leading asbestos survey company in Sussex, specialising in conducting comprehensive asbestos surveys for both domestic and non-domestic properties. In this article, we will discuss the importance of asbestos refurbishment surveys and when you should consider conducting one in Sussex.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry between the 1950s and 1990s due to its unique strength, durability, and fire resistance. It was used in over 3000 different products, including insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing materials, and textured coatings. If asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed or damaged, they release small fibres into the air that can be inhaled, leading to a variety of serious and potentially fatal diseases.

What is an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey?

An asbestos refurbishment survey is a type of survey that is conducted prior to any major refurbishment or demolition work that takes place on a property. The aim of the survey is to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that may be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition process. The survey must meet the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and include a thorough inspection of all areas within the property where refurbishment or demolition work is to be carried out.

When Do You Need an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey?

If you are planning a refurbishment or demolition project on a building that was built before the year 2000 in Sussex, you are required by law to conduct an asbestos refurbishment survey. This is because it is highly likely that the building contains asbestos, and any work that may disturb it can create a significant risk for those who may be exposed to it.

Why is an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey Necessary?

The primary reason for an asbestos refurbishment survey is to identify any ACMs within the property that may be disturbed during the refurbishment or demolition process. This is essential as the work carried out on a property can release asbestos fibres into the air, which can pose a significant risk to the people working on the site as well as anyone who may be exposed to it in the future.

By identifying the presence of asbestos in a property prior to any work taking place, the surveyor can provide recommendations on how best to manage the asbestos, which could include removal or encapsulation. It also allows contractors to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of those working on the site, such as wearing protective clothing, carrying out air monitoring and removing asbestos in a controlled manner.

What Does an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey Involve?

An asbestos refurbishment survey is conducted by a licensed and trained surveyor who will visit the property and conduct a thorough inspection of all areas where refurbishment or demolition work is planned. This includes the interiors, exteriors, and any outbuildings or sheds within the property's boundary.

During the survey, the surveyor will take samples of any materials suspected of containing asbestos, which will be analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory. Once the results are available, the surveyor will provide a detailed report outlining the location, type, and condition of any ACMs found, as well as recommendations for their management.

What is the Difference Between an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey and an Asbestos Management Survey?

An asbestos refurbishment survey is different from an asbestos management survey in that it focuses on identifying the presence of asbestos-containing materials that may be disturbed during refurbishment or demolition work. An asbestos management survey, on the other hand, is conducted to identify the presence, type, condition, and location of ACMs within a property and to manage the risks associated with them.

Do You Need to Conduct Both an Asbestos Refurbishment Survey and an Asbestos Management Survey?

If you have conducted an asbestos management survey within the last three years and the survey report is still valid, you may not need to conduct another management survey. However, you will still need to conduct an asbestos refurbishment survey prior to any refurbishment or demolition work taking place.

It is important to note that if the asbestos management survey was conducted more than three years ago, you will need to conduct a new survey to ensure that the information is up-to-date and accurate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are planning a refurbishment or demolition project on a property built before the year 2000, it is essential to conduct an asbestos refurbishment survey in Sussex. This will help you to manage the risks associated with asbestos and ensure the safety of those working on the site as well as any future occupants.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex, we are a leading asbestos survey company in Sussex, specialising in conducting thorough and comprehensive asbestos surveys for both domestic and non-domestic buildings. Our licensed and trained surveyors use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure that all ACMs within a property are identified, and their risks managed appropriately.

To schedule an asbestos refurbishment survey or to learn more about our services, please call us on 01273 978238, or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk to learn more about us and our services.