Do I Need An Asbestos Survey?

All commercial properties and buildings built before 2000 should already have an asbestos survey or register in place. Unfortunately in many circumstances this is not the case as many buildings/properties in the UK have failed to undergo asbestos surveys or the adequate management controls haven’t been implemented. This simply boils down to lack of knowledge/awareness from tradesmen, property owners and the general public, often leading to confusion. In this short article we’re going to look at the main reasons many companies and organisations realise they should be providing asbestos information.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

MANAGEMENT ASBESTOS SURVEY
In the UK non domestic properties built before 2000 must have asbestos surveys in place by law as stated in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. This allows us to identify materials that may contain asbestos containing materials and the management survey gives way for ongoing asbestos management within any property/building.

REFURBISHMENT/DEMOLITION
If you’re planning more work on the property that originally planned and it overtakes the scope of the original survey then you’re going to need a more specific detailed survey before you can progress. It’s important to note that this is also a legal requirement.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN
Should you find asbestos in a property you need a detailed plan of how you’re going to manage the contaminated materials, it’s important to keep any person entering the property from being exposed this is also a legal requirement.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN-ANNUAL UPDATE
Asbestos containing materials need to be monitored regularly, as often as annually to show there has been no evidence of disturbance, degradation or significant risk changes.

Reasons For Needing Asbestos Surveys

BUYING A PROPERTY
If you’re buying a commercial or residential property pre 2000 then you should typically be carrying out an asbestos survey. This helps avoid running into problems in the future.

SELLING A PROPERTY
Most sellers won’t know they need asbestos surveys carried out unless requested by a buyer’s agent or the lender makes a request. Although it isn’t illegal to sell a house with asbestos in the UK if you are aware then it’s important to disclose that information.

ENTERING A LEASE
Should you enter into a lease more often than not the maintenance responsibilities lie with you, as would the responsibility of the asbestos. So it’s important to ask for up to date information.

EXITING A LEASE
Exiting a lease also means you need to keep all the correct information up to date and asbestos is still in good shape, most landlords naturally expect this. If you have not complied with rules and regulations you may be charged as part of the dilapidations process.

PROPERTY INTO PENSIONS
It’s not uncommon for company directors to move property as a form of pension agreement. Trustees will expect up to date asbestos information so the value can be assessed accordingly and accurately.

INSTALLATION OF UTILITY CABLE
Times are changing so it’s no surprise that more advanced technology is being installed in most buildings/properties in these cases you’re going to need an up to date survey on hand. Depending on the work being carried out you may need a refurbishment/ demolition survey and a management survey.

LOCAL AUTHORITY
You may be expanding your property and revived planning permission as part of the process your local authority may require/request an appropriate asbestos survey.

LANDLORD COMMON AREAS
If you are a landlord and your properties are commercial or residential by law you must be aware of any asbestos found in common areas of the property such as car parking areas, lofts, stairwells or corridors.

Getting An Asbestos Survey

If you’re in need of an asbestos survey, then simply get in touch with asurveys today. We offer a wide range of asbestos services, covering surveys, inspections, management plans, consultancy and much more. No matter what your requirements might be, we can help.