WHEN DO YOU NOT REQUIRE AN ASBESTOS SURVEY IN SUSSEX

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials until the 1980s. Its use was banned completely in the UK in 1999 because of the significant health risks associated with asbestos exposure. It is estimated that about half a million non-domestic premises in the UK still contain asbestos, which poses a serious threat to human health.

Asbestos is a hazardous substance that can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other serious lung diseases when it is disturbed and its fibres released. Therefore, if you suspect that a building might contain asbestos, it is necessary to conduct an asbestos survey to identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The survey report will then help you to manage the risks of exposure to asbestos in your property.

However, not all buildings require an asbestos survey in Sussex. In this article, we will discuss the circumstances under which you may not require an asbestos survey in Sussex.

AFFORDABLE ASBESTOS REMOVAL SUSSEX

Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex is a reputable asbestos survey company in Sussex that offers affordable and reliable asbestos survey, management, and removal services. Our team of experts, who are licensed and trained to conduct asbestos surveys and removal, will work closely with you to ensure that your property is free from hazardous asbestos. We understand that asbestos is a serious concern and we take all necessary measures to ensure your safety during the asbestos survey and removal process.

You may contact us at any time by phone at 01273 978238 or through email at [email protected]. Our website, affordable-asbestos-removal-sussex.co.uk, provides information on our range of services and prices.

ASBESTOS

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used in construction materials, such as insulation, roofing shingles, flooring tiles, and cement. When these materials are disturbed by demolition, repair, or renovation work, they release invisible and deadly fibres into the air that can cause severe health issues. It is essential to conduct an asbestos survey and manage ACMs to prevent exposure to asbestos.

SURVEY

An asbestos survey is an inspection of a property that is designed to identify the presence, location, and condition of ACMs. There are two main types of asbestos surveys, namely:

MANAGEMENT SURVEY

A management survey is the standard type of survey that is conducted to identify the presence of asbestos and assess its condition in a property. This survey is usually conducted on an ongoing basis to manage the risks associated with asbestos-containing materials in a property.

REFURBISHMENT/DEMOLITION SURVEY

A refurbishment/demolition survey is conducted before major renovation or demolition work is carried out on a building. This survey is performed to identify the presence of any ACMs that may be disturbed during the renovation or demolition work.

CONTAIN ASBESTOS

Asbestos-containing materials are found in many domestic and non-domestic properties in Sussex. They are not always immediately apparent, and it is difficult to know whether a property contains ACMs without an asbestos survey. Some common building materials that contain asbestos include:

• Insulation board
• Textured coatings (e.g., Artex)
• AIB (asbestos insulation board)
• Cement roof sheets
• Vinyl floor tiles
• Old mains water pipes
• Boiler flues
• Pipe lagging
• Decorative plaster

DUTY TO MANAGE ASBESTOS

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, there is a legal duty to manage asbestos in non-domestic properties that fall under your control. This involves identifying the presence of asbestos-containing materials, assessing their condition, and developing a plan to manage the risks associated with them.

DOMESTIC PROPERTIES

The legal duty to manage asbestos does not apply to domestic properties that are occupied as a single domestic dwelling. In other words, if you own or occupy a home, you are not required to conduct an asbestos survey. However, it is still advisable to have an asbestos survey carried out if you suspect the presence of ACMs in your property.

TYPE OF USE OF BUILDING

The type of use of a building also affects the requirement for an asbestos survey in Sussex. For example, a building that is used as a shop or office would require an asbestos survey, while a building that is used solely as a warehouse or factory would not require a survey.

DEMOLITION AND REFURBISHMENT

If you are planning to carry out demolition or refurbishment work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials, you are required to commission a refurbishment/demolition survey. This helps to identify the presence and condition of ACMs in the area of the building that is affected by the construction work.

RESIDENTIAL PREMISES

If asbestos is suspected in communal areas in residential premises, such as corridors, lifts or bin stores, the management company may be required to undertake some form of survey or risk assessment. In this case, an asbestos survey may not be required for individual rooms or flats.

DO YOU NEED AN ASBESTOS SURVEY?

If you are unsure whether your property requires an asbestos survey, you should consult with an accredited asbestos survey company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex. Our team of experts can advise you on the best course of action based on your specific circumstances, type of building and construction work planned.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, asbestos is a serious health hazard that can result in severe lung conditions. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that your Sussex property is free from asbestos. Although not all buildings require an asbestos survey in Sussex, it is advisable to have a survey conducted even if you suspect that your property might contain ACMs. If you require an asbestos survey, management or removal in Sussex, contact Affordable Asbestos Removal Sussex today at 01273 978238 or email us at [email protected]. Our affordable and reliable services will help you to manage the risks associated with asbestos effectively.