Firstly, what is Asbestos? Imagine tiny, itchy building gremlins - that's asbestos! We, the asbestos surveyor superheroes, sniff them out. Our secret weapon? Inspections and lab tests! Why? So we can keep you safe. Finding these gremlins lets us manage them, like keeping a mischievous pet in check. No removal needed if they behave! But if they're causing trouble, we call in the pros. Asbestos surveys: keeping your building safe, one tiny gremlin at a time!
NOW! who should consider getting an Asbestos survey? Landlords and property managers of Houses in Multiple Occupations (HMOs) and communal areas.
It is a Legal requirement to identify any ACMs (Asbestos-containing materials) in the communal areas of a block of flats or HMOs constructed before 2000. An Asbestos Management plan is the easiest way to comply with The Control Asbestos Regulations 2012. Any ACMs will be identified, and how to manage them will be noted in a comprehensive and easy-to-follow plan.
Buyers
For buyers, an asbestos survey is not just a precaution- it's a necessity. Purchasing a property (commercial or residential pre-2000) without a survey and later discovering it contains ACMs can lead to unexpected costs and serious health risks, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Avoid these issues with a comprehensive Asbestos Management Survey.
If you are planning any building alterations to your new property, you are legally obliged not to expose anyone to asbestos during the works. The responsibility can fall on the builder, but it is better not to contaminate the property by identifying the asbestos beforehand.
Sellers
Usually, sellers only need to request an asbestos survey when a buyer, buyer's agent, or lender requests one. Unusually, it's not illegal to sell a house in the UK with asbestos, but if you are aware of asbestos, you should disclose it to potential buyers. However, beyond legal obligations, there is a moral responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of future occupants. The health implications of asbestos exposure are profound, and as a seller, you have the power to protect potential buyers from these risks.
Landlords of residential rental properties
Surprisingly, Landlords of residential rental properties still have no legal requirement to undertake asbestos management surveys. Any property constructed before 2000 is at risk of containing AMCs and, therefore, leaving Tenants exposed. However, it's important to note that often, asbestos is found in properties that can easily be managed once identified.
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