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.
In this article, we'll explain what your Stanton by Bridge asbestos survey looks for, how it's carried out, and what happens afterward.
Purpose of an Asbestos Survey
The main goal of an asbestos survey is to detect and evaluate asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a property. Asbestos featured in many homes before it was prohibited in 1999. Properties built before 2000 are likely to still harbour some form of ACMs.
A qualified surveyor will typically:
Pinpoint the location and amount of asbestos-containing materials.
Check the current state of each material.
Judge the risk level associated with each ACM.
These insights guide appropriate actions, from monitoring to full removal.
What Areas and Materials Are Inspected
Here are the main elements a qualified surveyor will investigate:
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
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)
Pipe insulation and lagging
Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive underneath
Cement products (like guttering, soffits, or flue pipes)
Roofing sheets or garage roofs made from asbestos cement
Internal partitions or heat shields containing ACMs
State of the ACMs
Surveyors make note of the state of each ACM. Friable materials, which easily break down, are more hazardous. Damaged lagging presents greater concern than sealed cement boards.
Likelihood of Disturbance
The surveyor assesses how likely each ACM is to be disturbed during normal occupancy or planned work. Panels in high-traffic areas are at greater risk than those hidden in attics.
Are Samples Taken?
In most cases, yes. When ACMs are suspected, a few samples are safely removed for analysis. 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.
Types of Survey and What They Cover
The scope of inspection is guided by its intended use:
Survey for Day-to-Day Use
Focuses on ACMs that pose risks during everyday operations.
Usually requires little disturbance to the building fabric.
Ideal for routine inspections and landlord obligations.
Refurbishment/Demolition Survey
Necessary for planned refurbishments or tear-downs.
In-depth inspection that includes destructive sampling.
Targets concealed materials that would be affected by renovation.
What Happens After the Survey?
Once completed, you'll receive a detailed asbestos survey report. This includes:
A list of all ACMs found.
Photographs and locations.
Risk assessments and material condition ratings.
Advice on what to do next, from removal to monitoring.
If high-risk asbestos is found, you may need to arrange removal by a licensed contractor. Lower risk materials might just need sealing or occasional checks.
Key Takeaway
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. 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. Let us help you carry out asbestos management the right way.
We've got more information on asbestos and ACMs for Stanton by Bridge residents on the site here:
- What Stanton by Bridge Experts Look For During An Asbestos Report
- How To Find An Accredited Stanton by Bridge Asbestos Disposal Site
- Where To Look For Asbestos In Stanton by Bridge Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: