If the property you intend to buy was built before the year 2000 , it MAY contain Asbestos. Asbestos was used in various building materials within domestic properties. Sometimes the asbestos material is obvious , however most of the time asbestos can be hiding in places you would never think of. Asbestos can be unchartered territory for many homebuyers , especially first time buyers. This can lead to confusion when knowing whether Asbestos Surveys are required or even needed. We have broken down some of the most popular questions to help you out.

If you know you need an asbestos survey but are unsure what information should be included , then you need to read our guide first. There are two types of asbestos survey , therefore you firstly need to know which one you require so you are equipped with the knowledge needed to deal with any asbestos found. For example , if you need to know what asbestos is contained in a property and the condition of this then a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey would be the wrong choice for you. Asbestos surveys are designed is to find asbestos within an area/property. Although the report layout will vary from company to company - the core information should be included and it should be set out in a format which is understandable. There is no point getting the asbestos report back and not know what you are looking at. Here at Surv-Tec Nottingham , we will guide you through the process and explain any sections you are unsure about - but as minimum , this is the information you should have included on your asbestos report - For both types of asbestos report : executive summary; introduction covering the scope of work; general site and survey information; survey results (including material assessment results); conclusions and actions; bulk analysis results. For Asbestos Management Surveys , the report should show: Asbestos Product Type : For example , textured coating Location of the material : For example , Bedroom 1 (Ceiling) . There should be a unique reference to the location and if a sample has been taken of the material , there should also be a unique sample reference number. Extent or quantity of material : For example , 12m2 Asbestos Type : This could have been determined from samples being removed and tested at a lab , or presumption by the surveyor (based on their experience and knowledge of similar materials) Accessibility and/or vulnerability of the material(s) : For example , easy access in open bedroom. Amount of damage or deterioration : For example , no damage , poor condition etc Surface Treatment : For example , painted For Asbestos Management Surveys , the report should show: Asbestos Product Type : For example , textured coating Location of the material : For example , Bedroom 1 (Ceiling) . There should be a unique reference to the location and if a sample has been taken of the material , there should also be a unique sample reference number. Extent or quantity of material : For example , 12m2 Asbestos Type : This could have been determined from samples being removed and tested at a lab , or presumption by the surveyor (based on their experience and knowledge of similar materials) If refurbishment or demolition works are due to be carried out more than 3 months after the survey is completed , then the information for a management survey should be obtained.

An Asbestos Management Survey carried out on a vacant retail unit in Nottingham , to ensure the responsible person is up to date with their legal obligations under CAR 2012

Asbestos Surveys are carried out to make a Materials Assessment. The purpose is to find Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) within a property and Record: What the material is Where it is How much there is How accessible it is The condition it is in and any surface treatment What the asbestos type is , by sampling or presuming. Only trained Asbestos Surveyors with experience should carry out Asbestos Surveys. How many types of Asbestos Survey are there? There are 2 types of Asbestos Survey: Management Survey - The purpose of an Asbestos Management Survey is to manage ACM during normal occupation and use of a premises. This type of survey is used to locate ACM in a property that could be damaged or disturbed by normal activities , foreseeable maintenance or by installing new equipment. Refurbishment / Demolition Survey - When a premises is being refurbished or demolished , this type of survey is carried out to ensure no one will be harmed by work on ACM in the property or in equipment and to ensure works on ACM is carried out by a suitable contractor. The condition of the ACM is not required to be recorded for this type of survey. It is an intrusive survey which will locate all ACM in the property before any structural works begin. The area(s) must be vacant and made fit for reoccupation after the survey is completed.