Asbestos is fairly common in buildings built between the 1930s and 1990s. While it is dangerous in some circumstances, it’s generally not a problem if you have it on your property.
However, if you think you may have asbestos in your home, it’s best to have a survey done to be sure. You may not need to have it removed, but you may need to have some work done to make sure that it is safe.
Asbestos is only dangerous when it’s disturbed. This means if any asbestos on your property is in good condition and secure, you may not need to remove it. But, if you are redecorating or having building work done, it’s best to make sure you won’t disturb any asbestos during the process.
There are 4 types of asbestos testing and surveying which you should know about. It’s important to choose the right one for your property.
Asbestos Sampling
Asbestos sampling is the most common form of domestic asbestos testing. It involves taking some samples from materials in your home and testing them in a laboratory to see if asbestos is present. This is usually the easiest and cheapest way to check if there is asbestos on your property.
The asbestos sampling will usually involve professional testers coming to your home to take samples. These are taken to a lab, where they will test for asbestos. Most laboratories will contact you with their results within 1-2 days.
Asbestos Air Testing
Asbestos air testing is another common form of domestic asbestos testing. There are different forms of air testing, depending on the type of work that you’re having done.
The first is background asbestos air testing. This measures the levels of asbestos in the air. This is usually done after you’ve had work done to contain asbestos, or have damaged asbestos-containing materials.
The second is leakage air testing. This ensures that any contained asbestos is still sound and asbestos fibres do not leak into the air. It is often done when you have enclosed asbestos in your property and want to make sure that it’s secure.
The last type of air testing is reassurance air testing. This test is usually used after you have asbestos removed. It makes sure that residual asbestos levels are below safe limits.
Asbestos Demolition Survey
You will usually only need this type of asbestos survey if you’re upgrading, refurbishing or demolishing your property. For example, this will include things like garage conversions, house extensions, or other building works.
These surveys ensure that the work is carried out safely and that a proper plan is created to manage for any asbestos.
Asbestos Management Survey
An asbestos management survey is for business premises or larger residential buildings which may contain asbestos.
This survey identifies any asbestos present in the property and check its condition. As part of the survey, the company will give you recommendations on the next steps to take. This may involve removing the asbestos or other management strategies to make it safe and ensure it isn’t disturbed.
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