Frequently Asked Questions

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was widely used in construction and other industries until the late 1990s. The three types of asbestos fibres most used in the UK are: blue (crocidolite), brown (amosite) and white (chrysotile)

Before its dangers were known, asbestos was often used in buildings for insulation, flooring, roofing, and was sprayed on ceilings and walls. Its use is now banned in the UK, but buildings constructed before the year 2000 may still have asbestos in them. Materials containing asbestos are referred to ‘ACMs’ (asbestos containing materials). Asbestos can also be found in soils, where ACM waste has been disposed.

If asbestos inside buildings remains intact, it poses very little risk. It’s only when it’s damaged or disturbed that tiny asbestos fibres can be released into the air and enter your lungs when breathing. Breathing in asbestos fibres can significantly damage your lungs and their lining. The symptoms of asbestos-related conditions take many years – even decades – to appear after the original exposure to asbestos. This means that exposure a long time ago might only show up as a condition today.

UK law is very strict about managing ACMs (asbestos containing materials). It is heavily regulated to ensure best practice and safety of anyone who may come into contact with it.

The Duty to Manage Asbestos is the responsibility of the Duty Holder and the guidelines are included in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012).

The Regulations set out your legal duties and the ACOP and guidance give practical advice on how to comply with those requirements.

There are 2 main types of survey: Asbestos Management Surveys and Asbestos Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys.

A management survey will be required during the normal occupation and use of the building to ensure continued management of the ACMs in situ. As part of your management plan re-inspection surveys will be carried out. These are periodic condition inspections that checks for any deterioration of ACMs caused by natural degradation, accidental damage or poor removal practice.

A refurbishment/demolition survey will be necessary when the building (or part of it) is to be upgraded, refurbished or demolished.

Regulation 4, CAR 2012 stipulates that the duty holder manages the risk of from asbestos by finding out if there is asbestos in the premises, its location and what condition it is in. It also allows social housing providers to comply with risk assessments as outlined in Regulation 5, CAR 2012. An asbestos survey will provide sufficient information for: an asbestos register and plan to be prepared, a suitable risk assessment to be carried out and a written plan to manage the risks to be produced.

That depends on the size and age of the building, location, and hours of access. We are happy to provide you with a quotation, please email surveys@cdcenvironmental.co.uk.

Legal Duty to Manage: For non-domestic properties, and common parts of residential buildings (like shared hallways), landlords have a legal duty under the Control of Asbestos Regulations (CAR) 2012 to manage asbestos.

What to do: Survey: Arrange an asbestos management survey to locate ACMs and assess their condition.
Register: Keep a record (register) of the ACMs’ locations and conditions.
Management Plan: Develop and implement an asbestos management plan to control risks.
Information: Provide information about ACMs to anyone who might disturb them, such as builders.

For Domestic Properties: While not a legal requirement, landlords are advised to have surveys done, especially for older properties, as asbestos use was banned in late 1999.

• Reporting Suspected Asbestos: If you think a property (your rented home or a property you’re buying) contains asbestos, contact your landlord or your local authority’s environmental health department for advice and assistance.
• Buying or Renovating a Home: You are advised to get an asbestos survey, especially if the property was built before 2000, to identify potential ACMs and inform any renovation plans.
• Do Not DIY: Do not attempt to test for or disturb suspected asbestos yourself; it must be done by a qualified professional to avoid creating hazardous dust.