Wondering what to expect during an asbestos inspection? Here's what you need to know. 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 Cowers Lane asbestos surveyors investigate across Derbyshire, the methods used, and the follow-up process.
What Is the Aim of an Asbestos Survey?
At its core, an asbestos survey is designed to locate, identify, and assess asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within a building. Asbestos featured in many homes before it was prohibited in 1999. Many homes built before 2000 may still contain asbestos in various forms.
A qualified surveyor will typically:
Identify the presence and extent of ACMs.
Evaluate how well the materials are holding up.
Judge the risk level associated with each ACM.
These insights guide appropriate actions, from monitoring to full removal.
What Does the Surveyor Look For?
Here are the main elements a qualified surveyor will investigate:
Frequent ACMs Inspected in Domestic Properties
They will check areas that historically contained ACMs, such as:
Textured coatings (e.g. Artex ceilings and walls)
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)
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.
Potential for Disruption
Surveyors determine how easily each material could be disturbed. For instance, ceiling tiles in a loft might remain untouched for years, whereas bathroom panels could be disturbed during renovation.
Are Samples Taken?
Yes. If materials are suspected of containing asbestos, the surveyor will usually take small samples for laboratory testing. The lab determines:
The presence of asbestos fibres.
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:
Management Survey
Focuses on ACMs that pose risks during everyday operations.
Non-intrusive and minimal disruption.
Best for those who need regular safety checks or general awareness.
Pre-Construction ACM Inspection
Legally required ahead of major structural work.
In-depth inspection that includes destructive sampling.
Aims to uncover any hidden ACMs that might be disturbed during building work.
Post-Survey Procedures and Reports
You'll get full documentation after the survey. Your report will show:
A register of all identified ACMs.
Photographs and locations.
Evaluations of condition and associated risk.
Recommendations for management, monitoring, or safe removal.
Where serious risks exist, professional removal will be necessary. Encapsulation or periodic reviews may be enough for stable ACMs.
Conclusion
These surveys give you a roadmap for safe management, not just detection. Renovating or letting an older home? A survey should be on your checklist.
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 Cowers Lane residents on the site here:
- What Cowers Lane Experts Look For With Their ACM Survey
- Finding Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in Cowers Lane
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In Cowers Lane Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too:
