Booking an asbestos survey for a domestic or rental property often raises the question: what will the surveyor check? 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 Duckmanton looks for, how it's done, and what to expect after.
Purpose of an Asbestos Survey
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. Many homes built before 2000 may still contain asbestos in various forms.
During the survey, professionals will:
Identify the presence and extent of ACMs.
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
Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive underneath
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. 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. When ACMs are suspected, a few samples are safely removed for analysis. The lab determines:
Whether asbestos is in the material.
The type of asbestos (e.g. chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite).
The concentration of fibres in the sample.
All sampling is done in a controlled, safe manner to prevent fibre release.
Different Survey Types Explained
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.
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
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.
Post-Survey Procedures and Reports
Once completed, you'll receive a detailed asbestos survey report. This includes:
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.
Where serious risks exist, professional removal will be necessary. Lower risk materials might just need sealing or occasional checks.
Conclusion
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. 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.
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 Duckmanton residents on the site here:
- Understanding What Duckmanton Asbestos Surveys Examine
- How To Find An Duckmanton ACM Disposal Site
- Where To Look For Asbestos-Containing Materials In Duckmanton Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: