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
Hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues built before 2000 commonly contain asbestos in boiler rooms, laundry facilities, kitchen ventilation ducting, corridor ceiling tiles, and bathroom partition walls. Periodic renovation cycles to refresh guest rooms and public areas routinely disturb these materials.
Hospitality renovations frequently occur in phases while the property remains partially operational. This demands rigorous containment, negative-pressure enclosures, and continuous air monitoring to ensure guest and staff safety in adjacent occupied areas.
What You Need
Frequently Asked Questions
Should hotels be renovated every 7 years?
Hotels typically undergo major refurbishment every 7-10 years to maintain standards. For properties built before 2000, an asbestos survey must be completed before any renovation work begins.
How long does asbestos stay in the air after renovation?
Asbestos fibres can remain airborne for many hours after disturbance, depending on ventilation and particle size. Professional air monitoring is required after any demolition involving ACMs before the area can be reoccupied.
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.
How much would it cost to renovate a hotel?
Hotel renovation costs vary widely, from €600-€6,000 per room depending on scope and standard. Pre-2000 hotels must budget for asbestos surveys and potential removal as part of the renovation programme, which can add 10-20% to the overall project cost.
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