Whether you are a homeowner, a home buyer or are responsible for business premises, an asbestos survey can be something that is absolutely essential. Any building that was built before 2000 could contain asbestos, so it is vital for you to take all relevant precautions. Here’s why getting a survey is important for you.
For businesses
The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 sets down that anyone who is responsible for the maintenance of non-domestic premises has what is known as a ‘duty to manage’ the asbestos on those premises. This means it is a legal requirement for you have a plan to both investigate and manage any asbestos on the property. Having an asbestos survey carried out is one of the important steps in creating a management plan for any asbestos on your property.
The survey will investigate the materials across a building and any suspicious, potentially asbestos-containing materials can sampled and sent to a lab for analysis. The report will then provide the details of any asbestos found and make recommendations on how to deal with it.
For home buyers
If you’re buying a property, it is important to understand whether there is any asbestos present. While having asbestos in your home doesn’t necessarily have to be a major problem, it does mean that you will need to be careful when having any work carried out, and may at some point need to consider options such as removal. A homebuyer asbestos survey will thoroughly examine the property you are considering purchasing to establish whether any asbestos is present. If asbestos is found, it could give you the opportunity to negotiate a reduction in cost.
For homeowners
There is no legal requirement to manage asbestos that you have in your home, but for the sake of their health and that of their family, many homeowners like to have a full asbestos survey carried out. It can help keep you aware of the current condition of your asbestos and allow you make a plan to ensure that everyone’s risk of exposure is minimised.