Wondering what to expect during an asbestos inspection? Here's what you need to know. Understanding how it works ensures you're ready for what comes next.
This guide outlines what Blackbrook asbestos surveyors investigate across Derbyshire, the methods used, and the follow-up process.
What Is the Aim of an Asbestos Survey?
Asbestos surveys aim to find, identify, and assess the condition of ACMs in domestic buildings. These materials were widely used in UK construction until asbestos was banned in 1999. Properties built before 2000 are likely to still harbour some form of ACMs.
During the survey, professionals will:
Find and map out where ACMs exist.
Evaluate how well the materials are holding up.
Evaluate the potential risk of disturbance or exposure.
These insights guide appropriate actions, from monitoring to full removal.
Key Elements Surveyors Examine
Here are the main elements a qualified surveyor will investigate:
Typical ACMs Found in Homes
They will check areas that historically contained ACMs, such as:
Textured wall and ceiling finishes like Artex
Ceiling and wall panels (such as asbestos insulating board or AIB)
Lagging and insulation around pipes
Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive underneath
Asbestos cement items like soffits or flues
Roofing sheets or garage roofs made from asbestos cement
Internal partitions or heat shields containing ACMs
Material Integrity Assessment
Surveyors make note of the state of each ACM. Fragile or deteriorated materials, particularly friable types, carry increased danger. Damaged lagging presents greater concern than sealed cement boards.
Likelihood of Disturbance
They evaluate the chance of disturbance during everyday use or renovations. Panels in high-traffic areas are at greater risk than those hidden in attics.
Is Sampling Part of the Survey?
Yes. Surveyors often take controlled samples to confirm if asbestos is present. This helps confirm:
Whether asbestos is in the material.
The type of asbestos (e.g. chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite).
How much asbestos is present.
Sampling is carried out with care to avoid contamination.
Types of Survey and What They Cover
Surveys vary based on the reason they are being conducted:
Standard Management Survey
Designed to locate ACMs that could be disturbed during normal occupancy or routine maintenance.
Carried out with limited invasion to the property.
Suitable for landlords managing communal areas in rented housing or cautious homeowners wanting peace of mind.
Refurbishment/Demolition Survey
Legally required ahead of major structural work.
Highly intrusive, as it may involve opening up walls, ceilings, and floor voids.
Ensures that no asbestos is accidentally disturbed during works.
Next Steps Following the Survey
After the inspection, a comprehensive report is issued. It contains:
A register of all identified ACMs.
Images and positions of each ACM.
Risk assessments and material condition ratings.
Recommendations for management, monitoring, or safe removal.
Dangerous ACMs will need to be dealt with by a licensed team. Encapsulation or periodic reviews may be enough for stable ACMs.
Final Thoughts
An asbestos survey doesn't just look for the presence of asbestos-it evaluates the risk it poses and helps you plan how to deal with it responsibly. From home upgrades to rental responsibilities, surveys play a key role in safeguarding health.
If you'd like advice on booking a survey or understanding your results, get in touch with a qualified asbestos professional. Trust us to support you through the process with safety and clarity.
We've got more information on asbestos and ACMs for Blackbrook residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Blackbrook Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Locating Reputable Asbestos Disposal Businesses in Blackbrook
- Where To Look For ACMs In Blackbrook Residential Settings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: