Asbestos Survey in Felixstowe

Asbestos Survey in Felixstowe,

The Importance of an Asbestos Survey in Felixstowe

Felixstowe, known for its bustling port and charming seaside town character, has a rich mix of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings—many of which were constructed before asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or property developer in Felixstowe, understanding the importance of an asbestos survey is crucial for both safety and legal compliance.

Why Asbestos Is Still a Concern

Asbestos was once a popular building material due to its heat resistance, insulation properties, and strength. It was commonly used in roofing, ceiling tiles, pipe lagging, floor tiles, and insulation boards. However, when asbestos materials are disturbed or damaged, they release microscopic fibres into the air. Inhalation of these fibres can lead to serious illnesses, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Given the number of older properties still in use around Felixstowe—including homes, schools, offices, and warehouses—the presence of asbestos is still a real risk.

Legal Responsibilities

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, duty holders (typically property owners or managers) are legally required to manage asbestos risks in non-domestic properties. This includes having an asbestos survey carried out to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and to ensure they are managed safely. Even homeowners planning major renovations can benefit from a survey to avoid costly surprises and protect tradespeople working on the property.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two primary types of surveys:

Management Survey: This is the standard survey for occupied buildings. It identifies asbestos that could be disturbed during normal use and provides guidance on how to manage it safely.
Refurbishment and Demolition Survey: This is required before any major renovation or demolition work. It is more intrusive, as it aims to locate all ACMs that could be disturbed during construction work.

In a town like Felixstowe, where older buildings often require updates or redevelopment, a refurbishment and demolition survey can be essential for safe project planning.

Why Felixstowe Properties Are at Risk

Many homes and buildings in Felixstowe were built or refurbished during the decades when asbestos was in widespread use. From post-war housing developments to port-side commercial buildings, ACMs may be hidden in walls, roofs, basements, or service ducts. Without a professional survey, these materials may go unnoticed until they are disturbed—posing serious health risks.

Benefits of an Asbestos Survey

Ensures legal compliance
Protects health and safety
Prevents project delays
Reduces long-term costs
Supports informed property decisions

Conclusion

An asbestos survey isn’t just a formality—it’s a critical step in protecting people, property, and peace of mind. Whether you’re maintaining a Victorian terraced home, renovating a shopfront, or developing near Felixstowe’s busy port, a professional asbestos survey ensures you’re meeting legal duties and managing risks responsibly.

Don’t wait for asbestos to become a problem. Get your property surveyed and ensure Felixstowe remains a safe place to live and work

But you’re not alone. Our team of asbestos removal and management experts are here to help, operating across Suffolk under two main survey types: Asbestos management survey – to establish the presence and stability of any asbestos Refurbishment/demolition survey – required by HSE regulations before any destructive work commences on an older property The best survey for your property will depend on your current and future plans for the property, with the latter survey often used for those seeking major works to the infrastructure and build of their property.

Take action now to keep your property safe and compliant.

Arrange a service today.

The importance of Asbestos Surveys

It is widely understood that any property built prior to the 2000s may well be concealing the presence of asbestos, with the 1990s bringing into force a ban on the material across the UK. Prior to this, asbestos was a popular and commonly used material thanks to its insulating properties.

The main risks that come from asbestos arise when it breaks down into fibres which become airborne and are breathed in by residents and those using the building. Because of this, asbestos surveys are not only important for your own personal safety and peace of mind – they are also a legal requirement for commercial properties built before 2000 and are strongly recommended for private and residential homes that are about to undergo major work – to check that any asbestos is stable.

No matter your end goal or your existing concerns, our asbestos survey team in Suffolk are here to help – with every survey followed up with a comprehensive management plan or full removal service depending on what we find and how you wish to proceed.

How do I know if I need an Asbestos Survey?

Asbestos surveys are recommended for all property and homeowners whose buildings were constructed prior to 2000, when asbestos was considered a popular building material and insulator. While asbestos is not relegated to constructive use only – it is also present in car brakes, roof tiles, and around pipe insulators – our team largely work across the commercial and private properties of Suffolk to identify and ascertain the stability of asbestos that may be present. If your property was built before 2000, or you believe that your property may have asbestos present and would like the peace of mind of a full survey and management or removal plan, then our team are here to help. Simply get in touch today to receive a quote, and one of our consultants will be in touch within a few working days.