Asbestos is a building material that was widely used in the UK before the year 2000 as it's both fire-resistant and insulating.
However, as we now know, asbestos can be incredibly dangerous when disturbed. This is because asbestos fibres, released into the air when asbestos is disturbed, can cause fatal lung diseases when inhaled.
Asbestos was fully banned as a building material in 1999. Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) are considered a low risk if they are in a good condition and can't be disturbed.
Do I need an Asbestos Survey before I buy a property?
It's standard practice to have an independent survey of a property taken before you complete the purchase.
During a survey, a surveyor examines the condition of the property to highlight any potential issues that could lead to a nasty surprise in the future.
With a Level 3 Survey, available with our partner e.surv, a full visual inspection will bring to light potential ACMs, and the expert surveyor will be able to provide advice on what you should do next.
ACMs that are in a good condition and can safely remain undisturbed do not inherently have to be removed.
That said, if you are considering refurbishing a property from before 2000, you are required by law to get an asbestos survey before any work can start.
What is an Asbestos Survey?
The standard asbestos survey is more commonly known as an Asbestos Management Survey.
An Asbestos Management Survey is designed to find any materials suspected to contain asbestos and assess how well they can be maintained so they aren't disturbed or damaged.
Although e.surv do not offer asbestos surveys, their Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accredited surveyors can provide you with advice and guidance on what to do if their survey finds ACMs in the property you desire to purchase.
If asbestos requires removal, you would then need a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey before any refurbishment or demolition takes place.
The expert advisers at e.surv would be happy to answer any questions you may have about dealing with asbestos if their surveys were to find it. Get in touch with e.surv today.
If you would like to read more information on asbestos, please visit the dedicated government webpage.
Your Move E-Marketing Executive
