Asbestos Surveys

Many older buildings in the UK were constructed at a time when asbestos-containing materials were widely used in construction.

Although asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, it remains present in many non-domestic buildings and the common parts of residential properties. When disturbed, asbestos fibres pose a serious risk to human health.

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, those responsible for non-domestic premises and the common parts of residential buildings have a legal duty to identify, manage, and control asbestos where it may be present. Failure to comply can result in enforcement action, including fines and prosecution.

Our asbestos surveyors help ensure that the properties you are responsible for are compliant with asbestos regulations and managed safely.

This guide explains what asbestos is, the risks it presents, the legal duties that apply, and how asbestos surveys help you meet your obligations.

Asbestos Surveys for Non-Domestic Buildings

If you manage, lease, or own a non-domestic building constructed before 2000, there is a significant likelihood that asbestos-containing materials may be present.

Because asbestos is often hidden within building materials and cannot be reliably identified by visual inspection alone, asbestos surveys must be carried out by competent, trained professionals.

This is where we can help.

We carry out comprehensive asbestos surveys to identify the presence, location, condition, and type of asbestos-containing materials within your building, allowing you to manage risks effectively and remain compliant with the law.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two main types of asbestos survey recognised in the UK, and the type required depends on how the building is used and whether work is planned.

Management Surveys

A management survey is required to manage asbestos during the normal occupation and use of a building. It aims to identify asbestos-containing materials that could be disturbed during routine activities and maintenance.

Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys

A refurbishment and demolition survey is required before any intrusive work is carried out. This survey is fully intrusive and designed to locate all asbestos that may be disturbed during refurbishment or demolition.

Selecting the correct survey type is essential to legal compliance and risk management.

Asbestos Testing

There are several different types of asbestos minerals, each presenting varying levels of health risk.

Following an asbestos survey, samples are taken and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory to confirm:

• The type of asbestos present
• The condition of the material
• The level of risk posed

Accurate testing is critical for determining appropriate control measures and developing a compliant asbestos management plan.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a collective term for six naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in construction due to their durability, insulation properties, and resistance to heat and chemicals.

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, microscopic fibres can be released into the air. Once inhaled, these fibres can lodge in the lungs and cause serious long-term health conditions.

What Does Asbestos Look Like?

Asbestos does not have a single appearance. Its colour and form vary depending on the type of asbestos mineral and the product in which it was used, making visual identification unreliable.

What Are the Types of Asbestos Commonly Found?

Main Types of Asbestos

Chrysotile (White Asbestos)

The most commonly used form of asbestos in the UK, widely used in cement products, insulation, and textured coatings.

Amosite (Brown Asbestos)

Often used in insulation boards and cement products. It is more brittle and poses a higher health risk when disturbed.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos)

Considered the most dangerous type, commonly used in pipe insulation and spray coatings.

Minor Types of Asbestos

Tremolite, Actinolite, and Anthophyllite

These were used less frequently but may still be encountered, often as contaminants in other materials.

Why Was Asbestos Used?

Asbestos was widely used because it:

• Provided effective thermal insulation
• Was fire-resistant
• Offered chemical resistance
• Strengthened building materials
• Was inexpensive and readily available

Where Is Asbestos Commonly Found in Buildings?

Asbestos may be found in:

• Insulating boards
• Ceiling tiles and coatings
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Roofing materials
• Cement products
• Pipe insulation
• Sealants and fillers

What Dangers Does Asbestos Pose to the Human Body?

Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious and often fatal illnesses, including:

• Lung cancer
• Mesothelioma
• Asbestosis

These conditions often develop many years after exposure, making prevention and control essential.

What Are the Asbestos Regulations in the UK?

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 place a legal duty to manage asbestos under Regulation 4 (Duty to Manage).

This duty applies to:

• Commercial properties
• Public buildings
• Industrial premises
• The common parts of residential buildings

Duty holders must:

• Identify asbestos-containing materials
• Record their location and condition
• Assess the risk of exposure
• Prepare and implement a management plan
• Prevent accidental disturbance

Enforcement is carried out by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and failure to comply may result in prosecution.

What Is an Asbestos Management Plan?

An asbestos management plan sets out how asbestos risks will be controlled and monitored.

In some cases, asbestos may be safely managed in place rather than removed, provided it is in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed.

Following a survey and testing, we will advise on appropriate control measures and help you maintain a compliant asbestos management plan.

Why Use Our Asbestos Survey and Testing Services?

• UKAS-accredited surveyors and laboratories
• Experienced, fully trained assessors
• Comprehensive reporting and clear guidance
• Fully insured and professional service
• Support with ongoing compliance

Our aim is to protect occupants, reduce risk, and ensure full compliance with asbestos legislatio

Conclusion

Asbestos remains a significant risk in older buildings, and managing it correctly is a legal requirement.

Asbestos surveys are essential for identifying risks, protecting occupants, and complying with UK asbestos regulations.

At Fire Risk Assessment Network, we support duty holders with professional asbestos surveys, testing, and management advice to help keep people safe and ensure legal compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is an Asbestos Survey?

An asbestos survey is an inspection carried out to identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials within a building. It helps duty holders understand and manage the risks associated with asbestos exposure.

When Is an Asbestos Survey Required?

An asbestos survey is required where a building was constructed before 2000 and is used for non-domestic purposes, or where it contains common parts of a residential building. Surveys are also required before refurbishment or demolition work begins.

Who Is Responsible for Arranging an Asbestos Survey?

The responsibility lies with the duty holder under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. This is typically the building owner, landlord, managing agent, or anyone with control over maintenance and repair of the premises.

What Are the Different Types of Asbestos Survey?

There are two main types of asbestos survey:

• Management surveys, which are used to manage asbestos during normal building use
• Refurbishment and demolition surveys, which are required before intrusive work is carried out

The type required depends on how the building is used and whether work is planned.

Does Asbestos Always Need to Be Removed?

No. Asbestos does not always need to be removed. If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and unlikely to be disturbed, they can often be safely managed in place through an asbestos management plan.

What Happens If Asbestos Regulations Are Not Complied With?

Failure to comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 can result in enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive, including improvement notices, prohibition notices, prosecution, fines, and imprisonment.

How Often Should an Asbestos Survey Be Reviewed?

A management survey should be reviewed regularly and whenever there are changes to the building, its use, or maintenance arrangements. The asbestos register and management plan must be kept up to date.