How long does an asbestos survey take ?

An asbestos survey is a crucial step in managing asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings, ensuring the safety of occupants and legal compliance under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. One of the most common questions asked by property owners, landlords, and contractors is: “How long does an asbestos survey take?” The answer depends on several factors, including the type of survey, the size and complexity of the building, access limitations, and the number of samples required.

Types of Asbestos Surveys

There are two main types of asbestos surveys, each with different scopes and time requirements:

1. Management Survey: This is the standard survey for buildings in normal use. It aims to locate ACMs that may be disturbed during routine occupancy or maintenance. It is usually non-intrusive and relatively quick to carry out.

2. Refurbishment and Demolition (R&D) Survey: This is required before any significant refurbishment or demolition work. It is more intrusive and detailed, as it involves accessing hidden parts of the structure to identify all potential ACMs that might be disturbed during the works.

The type of survey you need will have a significant impact on how long it takes to complete.

Factors That Affect Survey Duration

1. Size of the Property
   A small flat or office might take just a couple of hours to survey, while a large commercial building or multi-unit residential block could take a full day or more.

2. Complexity of the Building Layout
   Buildings with multiple floors, hidden voids, plant rooms, service ducts, and varied construction materials will take longer to inspect thoroughly.

3. Type of Survey
   A management survey typically takes less time—often a few hours—because it’s mainly visual and involves minimal disruption. An R&D survey can take longer, as it requires physically opening up walls, ceilings, and floors to access concealed areas.

4. Number of Samples Required
   Surveyors will collect samples of materials suspected to contain asbestos. More samples mean more time spent on site and in the lab, although sampling itself is generally quick.

5. Access Issues
   If areas of the building are locked, inaccessible, or occupied, delays may occur. Surveyors may need to revisit or work around occupants, extending the overall timeline.

6. Health and Safety Precautions
   Proper safety procedures—including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), dust control, and safe sampling—must be followed, especially in high-risk areas, which can add time.

Report Turnaround Time

While the physical survey may only take a few hours or a day, the full process includes analysis of samples in a laboratory and preparation of a detailed report. Most survey companies aim to deliver the report within 2–5 working days after the site visit. In urgent situations, fast-track services may be available at an additional cost.

Conclusion

In summary, the duration of an asbestos survey varies depending on the type of survey, the size and complexity of the building, and logistical factors. While a basic management survey for a small property might take only a few hours, larger or more intrusive surveys can take a day or more. Always plan ahead and allow time for both the site visit and report delivery to avoid delays in property transactions or construction projects.