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.
We'll break down the key things a survey in Kirk Langley looks for, how it's done, and what to expect after.
Why Asbestos Surveys Are Conducted
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. Many homes built before 2000 may still contain asbestos in various forms.
During the survey, professionals will:
Pinpoint the location and amount of asbestos-containing materials.
Assess their condition.
Evaluate the potential risk of disturbance or exposure.
These insights guide appropriate actions, from monitoring to full removal.
What Areas and Materials Are Inspected
A typical asbestos survey includes checks for the following:
Frequent ACMs Inspected in Domestic Properties
Common locations where asbestos may be found include:
Textured wall and ceiling finishes like Artex
Ceiling and wall panels (such as asbestos insulating board or AIB)
Pipe insulation and lagging
Floor tiles and the bitumen adhesive below them
Cement products (like guttering, soffits, or flue pipes)
Asbestos cement roof panels or garage coverings
Internal partitions or heat shields containing ACMs
Condition of Materials
The condition of any suspected ACMs is recorded. Fragile or deteriorated materials, particularly friable types, carry increased danger. For example, flaking pipe lagging is more dangerous than intact asbestos cement panels.
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.
Will the Survey Include Sample Collection?
Typically, yes. When ACMs are suspected, a few samples are safely removed for analysis. The lab determines:
The presence of asbestos fibres.
What kind of asbestos it is (white, brown, or blue).
The concentration of fibres in the sample.
Professionals follow strict protocols to ensure safe sample collection.
Understanding the Survey Categories
The depth of the survey depends on its purpose:
Survey for Day-to-Day Use
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.
Pre-Construction ACM Inspection
Required before any significant renovation or demolition work.
Highly intrusive, as it may involve opening up walls, ceilings, and floor voids.
Ensures that no asbestos is accidentally disturbed during works.
What Happens After the Survey?
After the inspection, a comprehensive report is issued. This includes:
A register of all identified ACMs.
Images and positions of each ACM.
Risk assessments and material condition ratings.
Advice on what to do next, from removal to monitoring.
Where serious risks exist, professional removal will be necessary. Encapsulation or periodic reviews may be enough for stable ACMs.
Key Takeaway
Surveys are about more than just finding asbestos in Kirk Langley-they provide essential risk assessments and action plans. From home upgrades to rental responsibilities, surveys play a key role in safeguarding health.
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 Kirk Langley residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Kirk Langley Asbestos Surveys Inspect
- How To Find A Licensed Kirk Langley ACM Disposal Site
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Kirk Langley Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: