Wondering what to expect during an asbestos inspection? Here's what you need to know. Knowing what the survey entails will help you stay informed and take the right action afterwards.
This guide outlines what Alderwasley asbestos surveyors investigate across Derbyshire, the methods used, and the follow-up process.
What Is the Aim of an Asbestos Survey?
The main goal of an asbestos survey is to detect and evaluate asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a property. Such materials were common in UK buildings until the 1999 asbestos ban. Many homes built before 2000 may still contain asbestos in various forms.
During the survey, professionals will:
Identify the presence and extent of ACMs.
Evaluate how well the materials are holding up.
Evaluate the potential risk of disturbance or exposure.
The findings help homeowners, landlords, and contractors make informed decisions about safe management or removal.
Key Elements Surveyors Examine
Surveyors usually examine these aspects:
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
They will check areas that historically contained ACMs, such as:
Textured coatings (e.g. Artex ceilings and walls)
Ceiling and wall panels (such as asbestos insulating board or AIB)
Pipe insulation and lagging
Floor tiles and the bitumen adhesive below them
Asbestos cement items like soffits or flues
Roofing sheets or garage roofs made from asbestos cement
Internal partitions or heat shields containing ACMs
State of the ACMs
Each material's condition is documented. Fragile or deteriorated materials, particularly friable types, carry increased danger. Damaged lagging presents greater concern than sealed cement boards.
Potential for Disruption
The surveyor assesses how likely each ACM is to be disturbed during normal occupancy or planned work. Bathroom panelling may be affected by upgrades, while loft tiles may stay undisturbed.
Will the Survey Include Sample Collection?
In most cases, yes. Surveyors often take controlled samples to confirm if asbestos is present. This helps confirm:
Whether asbestos is in the material.
What kind of asbestos it is (white, brown, or blue).
How much asbestos is present.
Sampling is carried out with care to avoid contamination.
Different Survey Types Explained
The scope of inspection is guided by its intended use:
Management Survey
Focuses on ACMs that pose risks during everyday operations.
Carried out with limited invasion to the property.
Best for those who need regular safety checks or general awareness.
Refurbishment/Demolition Survey
Necessary for planned refurbishments or tear-downs.
Extensive as it often requires accessing hidden areas.
Ensures that no asbestos is accidentally disturbed during works.
Post-Survey Procedures and Reports
You'll get full documentation after the survey. It contains:
A register of all identified ACMs.
Photographs and locations.
Evaluations of condition and associated risk.
Recommendations for management, monitoring, or safe removal.
Dangerous ACMs will need to be dealt with by a licensed team. Lower risk materials might just need sealing or occasional checks.
Conclusion
Surveys are about more than just finding asbestos in Alderwasley-they provide essential risk assessments and action plans. Renovating or letting an older home? A survey should be on your checklist.
Speak to a certified professional for guidance with bookings or interpreting results. Trust us to support you through the process with safety and clarity.
We've got more information on asbestos and ACMs for Alderwasley residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Alderwasley Asbestos Surveys Consider
- Searching For Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Alderwasley
- Common Places To Find ACMs In Alderwasley Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: