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
Office buildings constructed before 2000 typically contain asbestos in floor tiles and their adhesives, suspended ceiling tiles, partition walls, risers, and fire-stopping around structural steelwork. Open-plan office refurbishments that reconfigure layouts inevitably disturb these materials.
IT infrastructure upgrades, raised-floor modifications, and HVAC system replacements are high-risk activities in older office buildings because they require access to concealed spaces where asbestos-containing materials are most commonly found.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
Is asbestos safe if painted over?
Encapsulating asbestos with paint or sealant can reduce fibre release from deteriorated surfaces as a temporary measure. However, it does not eliminate the risk and does not replace the need for professional assessment and management.
Is it illegal to sell a house with asbestos in the UK?
No, it is legal to sell a property containing asbestos provided the buyer is informed. Managed asbestos in good condition is present in millions of UK properties and does not prevent a sale.
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.
Do I need an asbestos survey before starting a renovation?
Yes, a refurbishment survey is legally required before any work that may disturb asbestos-containing materials. The survey identifies ACMs in the work area so they can be safely managed or removed before construction begins.
What are the legal requirements for asbestos surveys in the UK?
Under CAR 2012, duty holders must commission a management survey for non-domestic premises and a refurbishment/demolition survey before building work. Surveys must be carried out by a competent surveyor, ideally UKAS-accredited.
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