Planning a renovation? Check for asbestos first.
Any building constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos in insulation, floor tiles, ceiling panels, pipe lagging, and dozens of other materials. Disturbing these during renovation releases dangerous fibres into the air.
Before starting any refurbishment, rehabilitation, or remodelling work, you are legally required in most jurisdictions to commission an asbestos survey. This identifies what materials are present, their condition, and whether they need to be removed before work begins.
Failing to check can halt your project, expose workers and occupants to health risks, and result in significant legal liability.
The Problem
Schools, universities, and nurseries built between the 1950s and 1990s heavily used asbestos in ceiling tiles, boiler houses, floor tiles, window putty, and insulating boards around heaters. System-built schools from this era are particularly likely to contain asbestos in their structural panels.
Renovation of educational buildings carries additional responsibility because children are more vulnerable to asbestos exposure than adults. Work must be planned around term schedules, and strict clearance procedures are required before pupils and staff can re-enter refurbished areas.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an asbestos refurbishment survey cost?
A full management survey typically costs between €350-€1,200 (£300-£1,000) depending on property size and complexity. Refurbishment/demolition surveys cost more due to their intrusive nature, typically €600-€3,000. Prices vary significantly by country and surveyor.
Is an asbestos survey legally required before renovation work?
In most jurisdictions, yes. Regulations require that building owners identify asbestos-containing materials before any refurbishment work that could disturb them. The survey must be conducted by an accredited inspector and the results communicated to all contractors working on site.
Can I get asbestos removed for free?
Some local authorities offer grant schemes for asbestos removal, particularly for domestic properties with deteriorated ACMs. Check with your council or devolved government for current schemes, though most removals are at the property owner's cost.
Are you legally required to take asbestos training?
Yes, anyone whose work could foreseeably expose them to asbestos must receive appropriate asbestos awareness training as a minimum. Workers carrying out asbestos removal must hold additional qualifications and, for licensable work, an HSE licence.
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