If you're arranging an asbestos survey for your home or rental property, you might be wondering what exactly the surveyor will be looking for. Understanding the purpose and scope of the survey can help you feel more prepared-and ensure you know what steps to take once the results come in.
This guide outlines what Harpur Hill asbestos surveyors investigate across Derbyshire, the methods used, and the follow-up process.
Why Asbestos Surveys Are Conducted
Asbestos surveys aim to find, identify, and assess the condition of ACMs in domestic buildings. Such materials were common in UK buildings until the 1999 asbestos ban. Properties built before 2000 are likely to still harbour some form of ACMs.
A qualified surveyor will typically:
Find and map out where ACMs exist.
Check the current state of each material.
Evaluate the potential risk of disturbance or exposure.
These insights guide appropriate actions, from monitoring to full removal.
What Areas and Materials Are Inspected
Surveyors usually examine these aspects:
Typical ACMs Found in Homes
Common locations where asbestos may be found include:
Textured coatings (e.g. Artex ceilings and walls)
Asbestos insulating boards in walls and ceilings
Pipe insulation and lagging
Floor tiles and the bitumen adhesive below them
Cement products (like guttering, soffits, or flue pipes)
Roofing sheets or garage roofs made from asbestos cement
Internal partitions or heat shields containing ACMs
Condition of Materials
Each material's condition is documented. Materials in poor condition-especially those that are friable (easily crumbled or damaged)-pose a higher risk. For example, flaking pipe lagging is more dangerous than intact asbestos cement panels.
Risk of Being Disturbed
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.
Are Samples Taken?
Yes. If materials are suspected of containing asbestos, the surveyor will usually take small samples for laboratory testing. Testing reveals:
The presence of asbestos fibres.
What kind of asbestos it is (white, brown, or blue).
The concentration of fibres in the sample.
All sampling is done in a controlled, safe manner to prevent fibre release.
Understanding the Survey Categories
The depth of the survey depends on its purpose:
Standard Management Survey
Identifies materials that might be affected during standard use of the property.
Non-intrusive and minimal disruption.
Ideal for routine inspections and landlord obligations.
Survey Prior to Renovation or Demolition
Necessary for planned refurbishments or tear-downs.
Extensive as it often requires accessing hidden areas.
Aims to uncover any hidden ACMs that might be disturbed during building work.
What Happens After the Survey?
You'll get full documentation after the survey. Your report will show:
A list of all ACMs found.
Images and positions of each ACM.
Evaluations of condition and associated risk.
Advice on what to do next, from removal to monitoring.
Dangerous ACMs will need to be dealt with by a licensed team. Lower risk materials might just need sealing or occasional checks.
Key Takeaway
Surveys are about more than just finding asbestos in Harpur Hill-they provide essential risk assessments and action plans. Whether you're renovating a 1950s home or managing a rental flat, an asbestos survey is a practical and often essential step in keeping people safe.
Need help arranging a survey or making sense of your report? A licensed expert can assist. We're here to help you navigate the process safely and confidently.
We've got more information on asbestos and ACMs for Harpur Hill residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Harpur Hill Consider?
- Identifying Approved Sites for Asbestos Waste in Harpur Hill
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Harpur Hill Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: