Will a house building survey pick up asbestos ?

 

Will a house building survey pick up asbestos ? A standard house building survey, such as a HomeBuyers Report or Building Survey (also known as a Level 2 or Level 3 Survey in the UK), may identify the potential presence of asbestos, but it will not confirm it or involve any testing. These surveys are primarily designed to assess the overall condition of a property and identify any visible defects or structural issues, rather than conducting a full hazardous materials inspection.

What a House Building Survey Includes

A house building survey is usually carried out by a chartered surveyor when someone is buying or renovating a property. It provides a general overview of the building’s condition, including the state of the roof, walls, windows, insulation, and damp-proofing. During the inspection, the surveyor may note the presence of materials that could contain asbestos, especially if the property was built before the year 2000, when asbestos was still legally used in construction in the UK.

Common materials where asbestos might be found include:

  • Artex textured ceilings and wall coatings

  • Pipe insulation and lagging

  • Floor tiles and vinyl sheeting

  • Cement roofing sheets and guttering

  • Soffits and fascia boards

  • Old boiler insulation panels

If the surveyor suspects that any of these materials might contain asbestos, they will typically highlight this in the report and recommend further investigation, usually in the form of a specialist asbestos survey.

Limitations of a Building Survey for Asbestos

It is important to understand that building surveys are non-invasive. Surveyors are not allowed to damage or disturb materials during their inspection. As a result, they cannot confirm the presence of asbestos or determine whether a particular material is safe. They do not take samples or use laboratory testing. Therefore, while they may flag a risk, they cannot provide certainty.

To confirm the presence of asbestos, a separate Asbestos Management Survey or Refurbishment and Demolition (R&D) Survey must be carried out by a qualified asbestos surveyor. These are more detailed and often involve taking samples for laboratory testing, particularly if any renovation or demolition work is planned.

When Should You Get an Asbestos Survey?

If the house was built before 2000 and you plan to carry out renovations, or if the surveyor flags potential asbestos risks, it is wise to commission an asbestos survey before doing any work. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibres that pose serious health risks, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

Even if you’re not planning renovations, knowing whether asbestos is present allows you to manage it safely and comply with legal requirements, particularly if the property will be rented out or used commercially.

Conclusion

While a house building survey might raise awareness of potential asbestos-containing materials, it will not definitively detect or assess them. For any property built before 2000, especially those with visible signs of suspect materials, a dedicated asbestos survey is strongly recommended. It is the only way to accurately identify and manage asbestos risks, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

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What are the differences between the asbestos surveys ?

Row of residential homes, addressing the steps to take if asbestos is found in a home.

What are the differences between the asbestos surveys ?  Asbestos surveys are critical for identifying the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings, helping to manage and mitigate health risks associated with asbestos exposure. In the UK, the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 governs how asbestos must be handled, including the types of surveys required. The two main types of asbestos surveys are the Asbestos Management Survey and the Refurbishment and Demolition (R&D) Survey. Understanding the differences between these two surveys is essential for ensuring compliance and maintaining a safe environment.

Asbestos Management Survey

The Asbestos Management Survey is the more common of the two and is typically carried out in buildings that are in use and not undergoing major renovation or demolition. Its purpose is to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any suspected ACMs that could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy, including maintenance and installation work.

This survey is generally non-intrusive, meaning that surveyors do not carry out extensive destructive sampling. Instead, they may take small samples from suspected materials, examine building plans, and inspect areas that are accessible without major disruption. The surveyor will then assess the condition of any identified ACMs and provide recommendations for their management. This might include labeling, sealing, or ongoing monitoring, rather than immediate removal. The survey report helps building owners create or update an asbestos management plan, which is a legal requirement for duty holders under the regulations.

Refurbishment and Demolition Survey

The Refurbishment and Demolition Survey is much more invasive and is required before any major building work is carried out. This includes demolition, structural alterations, or significant refurbishment projects. Its purpose is to locate all ACMs in the building (or in the specific area of planned work), including those hidden behind walls, under floors, or above ceilings.

Due to its nature, the R&D Survey involves destructive inspection techniques. This allows the surveyor to gain access to all parts of the structure that might contain asbestos, including voids, ducts, and other concealed areas. The building (or section of it) often needs to be vacated before the survey is conducted, especially if there’s a high risk of disturbing asbestos. This type of survey is crucial to ensure that workers are not exposed to asbestos during construction work, which can release dangerous fibers into the air.

Key Differences

The main differences between the two surveys lie in their purpose, intrusiveness, and timing. The Management Survey is for ongoing occupation and focuses on preventing accidental disturbance of ACMs, while the R&D Survey is a pre-construction requirement, aiming to uncover all potential asbestos hazards before work begins.

Another important distinction is the level of disruption. Management Surveys are minimally disruptive and suitable for occupied buildings, whereas R&D Surveys often require temporary evacuation and extensive inspection to comply with safety regulations.

Conclusion

Both types of asbestos surveys serve vital roles in maintaining health and safety. Selecting the correct survey depends on the building’s current use and any planned work. Misidentifying the required survey can lead to regulatory non-compliance and serious health risks. Therefore, building owners and duty holders must understand the differences and engage qualified professionals to carry out the appropriate survey.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/faq.htm

Why is PAT Testing Important for Businesses?

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is essential for ensuring the safety of electrical appliances in any business environment. As an employer, your responsibility is to protect both your employees and customers. This includes maintaining safe working conditions, and PAT testing plays a crucial role in that.Why is PAT Testing Important for Businesses?

 

Understanding PAT Testing

PAT testing involves checking electrical appliances for safety. This process identifies any faults or hazards that could cause electric shocks or fires. Regular testing ensures that your equipment is safe to use and complies with legal requirements, making it an integral part of workplace safety and risk management.

 

Legal and Safety Requirements

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, employers must ensure the safety of electrical equipment. This means establishing a regular schedule for PAT testing. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 further emphasise the importance of maintaining all electrical systems in a safe condition. Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including fines or legal action. By implementing a routine for PAT testing, you protect your business from potential risks and liabilities.

 

Benefits of PAT Testing

One of the primary benefits of PAT testing is enhancing safety in your workplace. By identifying faulty appliances early, you can prevent accidents before they happen. Additionally, PAT testing can help prolong the lifespan of your equipment. Well-maintained appliances run efficiently, which can save you money in the long run.

Moreover, regular testing can improve employee morale. When staff members feel safe in their work environment, they are likely to be more productive. Implementing a fire risk assessment and ensuring your appliances are regularly tested can further enhance workplace safety.

Conclusion

In summary, PAT testing is not just a legal requirement; it is a vital aspect of maintaining safety in the workplace. By prioritising PAT testing, you protect your employees, enhance productivity, and ensure compliance with regulations.

If you’re looking for reliable PAT testing services, contact us today! Ensure the safety of your workplace and create a secure environment for everyone.

Minimising the Risk of Legionella Infection at Home

Minimising the Risk of Legionella Infection at Home

Legionella bacteria can pose a serious health risk in home environments, leading to illnesses like Legionnaires’ disease. This is a severe form of pneumonia that can affect anyone, particularly the elderly or those with weakened immune systems. Taking simple, proactive measures can prevent the growth of Legionella in your home’s water systems, protecting your family from potential harm.Minimising the Risk of Legionella Infection at Home

 

Understanding Legionella

Legionella bacteria thrive in warm water, often found in stagnant or poorly maintained water systems. Common sources include hot water tanks, cooling towers, and even home plumbing systems. The bacteria are usually transmitted through inhaling tiny water droplets, such as those released by showers, taps, and air conditioning units, which is why regular cleaning, maintenance and legionella testing is so important for your family’s health.

 

Minimising Legionella Risk at Home

Water Heater Maintenance

To prevent Legionella, it’s essential to maintain your water heater properly. Regularly clean and flush the water heater to remove any sediment that may have accumulated. Ensure the water heater is set to a temperature that prevents bacterial growth—around 60°C (140°F) is recommended.

Showerhead and Faucet Cleaning

Showerheads and taps can build up mineral deposits and biofilm over time, creating an ideal breeding ground for Legionella. Clean them regularly with a vinegar-based solution to eliminate bacteria. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of infection in your home.

Plumbing System Maintenance

Regular plumbing inspections are crucial. Leaks or corrosion in pipes can encourage Legionella growth. To avoid this, inspect your plumbing system for any signs of damage. Additionally, flush any unused taps or pipes regularly to prevent stagnant water from building up.

Humidifier Maintenance

Humidifiers can also harbour Legionella if not maintained properly. Be sure to clean and disinfect your humidifier according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using distilled or demineralised water can also help reduce the risk of bacteria growing in your device.

Cooling Tower Maintenance

Cooling towers should be cleaned, disinfected, and inspected regularly to avoid Legionella buildup. Proper upkeep can help ensure that your home’s air conditioning system remains safe and free from contamination.

 

Legionella Testing and Risk Assessments

Professional Legionella testing and risk assessments are crucial to ensure complete safety. At South East Asbestos Surveys, we offer comprehensive testing services to identify and manage the risks of Legionella in your home. Proactive testing can give you peace of mind, knowing that your family is protected from potential hazards.

 

Preventing Legionella infections in your home doesn’t need to be complicated. By maintaining your water systems and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk. For expert advice, Legionella testing, or risk assessments, contact South East Asbestos Surveys. Our experienced team is here to help you keep your home safe and healthy. Get in touch with us today!

Understanding Legionella: What It Is and Why It’s Dangerous

Understanding Legionella: What It Is and Why It's Dangerous

Understanding Legionella, At South East Asbestos Surveys, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and health of building occupants. Our services, which include Legionella risk assessment services,  are designed to keep your environment safe. One critical aspect of our work is addressing the potential health risk posed by Legionella bacteria in water systems.


What is Legionella?

Legionella bacteria are naturally found in freshwater environments like rivers and lakes. However, they can become a significant health risk when they enter and proliferate in man-made water systems. These bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water and can be found in various parts of a building’s water system, including showerheads, cooling towers, and dead legs (unused sections of piping). Different species of legionella exist, with legionella pneumophila being the most dangerous, responsible for the majority of Legionnaires’ disease cases.


Diseases Caused by Legionella

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets contaminated with legionella bacteria. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In some cases, the disease can lead to severe pneumonia and even death, particularly in older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Pontiac fever, another illness caused by legionella, presents as a milder, flu-like condition. While less severe, it still underscores the need for vigilant water system maintenance and testing.


Why Legionella Testing is Crucial

Legionella thrives in stagnant or slow-moving water, making certain areas within buildings particularly vulnerable. These include showerheads, taps, water tanks, and cooling towers. Regular legionella testing is not just a safety measure; it is a legal requirement in the UK. The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) Approved Code of Practice L8 mandates regular risk assessments and testing to ensure water systems are safe and compliant.


Benefits of Regular Legionella Testing

Early detection of legionella bacteria is crucial in preventing outbreaks and safeguarding the health of building occupants. Regular legionella testing helps identify and mitigate risks before they escalate, reducing the potential for costly fines and legal repercussions due to non-compliance. Moreover, it ensures a safe and healthy environment for everyone who uses the building.


Legionella Testing & Risk Assessment Services

At South East Asbestos Surveys, we specialise in comprehensive legionella testing services. Our process includes a thorough site survey, water sampling, and detailed analysis to identify any legionella presence. Our qualified personnel follow UKAS accredited testing procedures, ensuring accurate and reliable results. By choosing our services, you are opting for expertise and commitment to maintaining a safe water system in your building.

 
Understanding the dangers of Legionella and the importance of regular testing cannot be overstated. Here at South East Asbestos Surveys we’re committed to providing comprehensive safety solutions, including legionella testing services, to keep your environment safe.
Contact us today for a legionella risk assessment and testing quote. Safeguard your building and protect its occupants from potential health risks. Reach out via our website or call us for more information. Your safety is our priority.

What to Do If You Find Asbestos in Your Home

Row of residential homes, addressing the steps to take if asbestos is found in a home.

Asbestos is a material which was often used when building homes between the 1950s and 1990s. Therefore, if your house has been built during this time period there is a chance that asbestos is present.

The problem with asbestos is that the material was deemed a health risk when damaged or disturbed. Consequently, the use of asbestos is now regulated by law and the material is banned from use in building work. We have put together this blog to help you understand asbestos and know exactly what to do if you find it in your home.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a natural mineral composed of thin fibres. Before people understood the associated dangers, it was used in homes as a strong, low cost and effective building material. However, it was discovered that the fibres in asbestos are extremely toxic and dangerous when they become airborne and are inhaled. As the fibres are so strong, your body cannot break them down. As a result, they begin to cause damage to the lung tissue. Fibres will only become airborne when the material becomes damaged.

In many cases, the asbestos present is undisturbed, so won’t pose an immediate health risk. But to ensure health and safety, we always recommend that you get a professional to check out the areas of risk and remove the material if required.

Where Could Asbestos Be in My Home?

Asbestos was a very effective building material and used throughout many homes. For example, the substance was added into plaster and cement to add strength. Common places you might find asbestos in your home include:

  • Vinyl flooring
  • Insulation boards within walls
  • Roofing felt and tiles
  • Coatings and textured paints on walls and ceilings
  • Cement water tanks
  • Cement gutters and rain pipes
  • Bathroom elements such as bath panels, toilets and sinks

If you suspect asbestos, it is critical to keep the item in place. Then, trained professionals can help you survey and remove the material. If you try to remove it yourself, you risk breathing in some of the tiny and dangerous fibres.

Steps to take if you find asbestos in your home:

  1. Don’t panic! Leave the area alone. If you have accidentally damaged the asbestos, don’t try and clear up the mess. By doing this, you could make the situation worse.
  2. Contact professionals who can give you a detailed survey. This will determine whether or not asbestos is present in your home. Additionally, the report will advise on the areas the material can be found within your home. The team will then provide you with recommendations on how the asbestos needs to be dealt with in order to keep your home safe.
  3. Use the recommendations given to guide you moving forward. If the asbestos containing material is dangerous and a risk to your health, you will need to organise professionals to remove the asbestos. However, if the material containing asbestos poses little to no health risk, the advice may be removal is not required.

These are very important steps to take if you find asbestos in your home. You will minimise the risk to your own health by employing trained professionals to deal with your situation.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/faq.htm

Should You Have an Asbestos Survey When Buying a Property?

While buying a new property is exciting, there are some significant aspects to check out. This helps you know exactly what you are purchasing! One of the important questions to ask is whether or not the property is likely to contain asbestos.  Should You Get an Asbestos Survey When Buying a Property?

This blog will help you identify if you should have an asbestos survey when buying a property.

Is an Asbestos Survey a Legal Requirement When Buying a Property?

Carrying out an asbestos survey is not a legal requirement when buying a property for homes built after 2000. However, there are many reasons why it is a good idea. Most importantly, carrying out a survey will help you confirm that the property you are purchasing is safe from the health risks of asbestos. If asbestos is present, the survey will issue you with recommendations for dealing with the material safely. 

When is a Property Likely to Have Asbestos? 

If your property was built before the year 2000, there is a chance the material is present. 

Asbestos was widely used by builders due to its strong, low cost, insulating, water and chemical resistant properties. However, the fibres the material is composed of are extremely toxic and dangerous when airborne and inhaled. The fibres do remain safe if left alone and the material is not damaged or disturbed.

Unfortunately, Asbestos was used in properties and building work up until as recently as 1999. Since then, there has been a ban on use of the mineral within the UK. This has led to research suggesting that around half of all homes in the UK are at risk of asbestos. And this figure is even steeper for other types of buildings, with a government report finding that a massive 75% of schools in the UK are at risk of having asbestos containing materials within the properties! 

There may not be an immediate risk if the asbestos is left alone. However, there is still the possibility of a significant health risk within a property containing asbestos as the fibres can become disturbed. For example, water damage to a ceiling containing asbestos could disturb and disperse the dangerous fibres. Additionally, many insurance policies will not cover the damage if the material is found. They will however sometimes cover the cost of asbestos removal as part of your claim. 

Where Would Asbestos Be in a Property? 

If you suspect there may be asbestos within a property, there are some places you are most likely to find it. Two of the most common places are within decorative ceiling coatings and vinyl floor tiles. Other common areas include insulation, internal garage roofs, storage tanks, rainwater pipes and gutters. 

If there is a chance asbestos is present in the building you are interested in buying, an asbestos survey is always recommended. This is the same regardless of whether the property is a residential home or a commercial property. 

If you are looking for a qualified and experienced team to carry out an asbestos survey for a property you are buying, contact us as South East Asbestos Surveys Ltd for a free quote. 

Construction site health and safety risks

Construction site health and safety risks, There are many health and safety risks when working on or managing a construction site. We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 health and safety risks on construction sites.

1. Asbestos Management

Asbestos is a very dangerous substance and must be handled correctly. Due to asbestos being an extremely hazardous material, it is important that before beginning construction work an asbestos survey is carried out by a qualified surveyor. If asbestos is found at your construction site, the correct procedures must be followed whilst it is being removed, this includes proper disposal. For further information on asbestos surveys, contact our team.

2. Electricity 

Electrocution is another big health and safety risk at construction sites, especially with live wires around. It is important to ensure your workforce is trained in electrical safety to keep themselves and their colleagues safe. There are several options for how to train your workforce, including online courses, a great option for any construction companies with a workforce in different sites.

3. Noise

Whilst noise is not always considered a hazard, on a construction site it must be. With lots of loud repetitive noises on site every day, it is vital that staff members are taking the correct precautions to protect their hearing. Depending on the level of noise, you may need to provide your team with noise defenders or other PPE to protect their hearing.

4. Working at height 

On a construction site, there are going to be many times during the constructions process that workers are required to work at height. You should make sure that any workers working at height have been given the correct training and safety equipment such as harnesses to avoid injury. There are lots of training resources available to utilise to ensure your workforce are safe no matter what height they are working at. 

5. Moving objects

There are always lots of heavy, moving objections on construction sites, from materials to vehicles. Whilst you can take some precautions to reduce injury caused by moving objects, it is the responsibility of your workers to be aware of who and what is around them when moving around a site. 

Read further information on construction site hazards, or contact us to discuss an asbestos survey or management plan.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/healthrisks/key-points.htm

Can you live in a house that has asbestos in?

Can you live in a house that has asbestos in? Knowing how dangerous asbestos can be makes finding it in your home very scary. You are likely to have lots of questions running through your head about safety, we’ve got the answers to your questions, so if you are wondering whether it is safe to live in a home that has a presence of asbestos, continue reading.

Firstly, if you do think your home contains asbestos, don’t panic! Contact an asbestos survey or your local authority, who will also be able to provide you with guidance of the next steps to take.

Where is asbestos found in houses?

If you live in an older property that was built before 1999, there is a possibility that asbestos materials may have been used as in 1999, the UK government banned the use of asbestos containing materials. 

There are two main types of asbestos, firmly bound and loosely bound. Firmly bound asbestos materials include vinyl floor tiles, artificial brick cladding and vinyl floor tiles, to name a few. The second type of asbestos is loosely bound. Loosely bound asbestos containing materials include insulation for ceilings, heaters and hot water pipes.

Is it safe to leave the asbestos in my house undisturbed?

In short, yes if you don’t plan on carrying out any building or renovation work. Asbestos is only harmful when the fires are exposed, if asbestos is left undisturbed no airborne particles will be released. However, asbestos shouldn’t be ignored and you should contact an asbestos surveyor to carry out a survey. Head to our blog to find out which asbestos survey you will need. If you are planning any work in the new future, it is vital you get the asbestos removed by a qualified, licensed professional. If you do find asbestos in your home, it is always best to have the area inspected by professionals, as the effects of asbestos exposure can take up to 30 years to present themselves.

Can I remove the asbestos in my home myself?

Whilst it is not illegal to remove asbestos yourself, it is strongly advised against. We recommend hiring a qualified, experienced, professional to remove the asbestos in your home as lots of precautions need to be taken to minimise exposure. For example, protective clothing should be worn along with gloves and a mask with a special filter cartridge that traps asbestos fibres. All surfaces should be covered with plastic sheets to catch any loose fibres, and any asbestos containing materials must be disposed off correctly by a licensed professional. Asbestos is a dangerous material when handled incorrectly and should be handled by those with the correct qualifications to ensure minimal exposure.

Who can help me remove asbestos?

After conducting a survey to confirm whether asbestos is present, contact a professional asbestos remover. For further information on who is best to help you remove asbestos from your home, please see our blog on ‘How to choose an asbestos removal company’. We are always happy to advise and answer any questions you may have about the presence of asbestos in your home, so please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

https://web.archive.org/web/20241106103737/https://hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-buying/buying-a-house-with-asbestos/

How to choose an Asbestos Removal Company

How to choose an Asbestos Removal Company, Once you have had your building surveyed for asbestos by a qualified surveyor, you may need to have asbestos removed. In order to do this, you will need to choose an asbestos removal company. With so many companies offering the service out there, how do you make your selection? This blog outlines some of the things to consider when selecting an asbestos removal company.

Specialised services

When looking for an asbestos removal company, it is important to carefully assess the areas of asbestos removal they specialise in. Whilst some removal companies offer a range of services, others will specialise in asbestos abatement, mould remediation and other services. 

We would always recommend selecting a company that specialist in the type of asbestos removal service you require.

Asbestos removal company licensing

There are a range of different licensing options for companies working with asbestos. It is important to ensure the company you select has the right licences and is qualified to remove asbestos from your building. 

The equipment used and the company’s procedures

When narrowing your search, be sure to investigate what the company’ procedures are. For example, sheets should be used to keep asbestos fibres away from areas of the building that are not contaminated. The company should also have a decontamination procedure for their workers to follow before leaving the site.

It is also important to ensure the companies in your short list, are using the latest equipment and technologies available. If a company is using outdated equipment and tools, the equipment could be unsafe and could also hamper the efficiency of the removal process.

Insurance cover

It is no secret that asbestos is extremely dangerous, so it vital that you check the company you are going to use has the right levels of insurance. 

The contractor you decide to use should also have an employee compensation policy; this will cover any harm a worker might suffer whilst at work. The company should have public liability insurance to cover any damages to third parties or their property during the asbestos removal process. The benefit of public liability insurance is that it also shields you as a home/property owner from lawsuits if an employee is injured during the removal process.

Disposal of waste

Due to the level of harm asbestos can cause, it is essential that any contaminated materials are disposed of correctly. This includes any safety gear, polythene sheets and construction materials. It is also a requirement in England for contractors to hold a valid Waste Carrier Licence. Asbestos should also only be disposed of at licensed sites. 

When a company disposes of asbestos, it should be in a sealed double bag and marked as hazardous. The vehicle being used for transportation should also be easy to clean and have a locking chamber for asbestos. You should also be issued with proof that any contaminated materials have been disposed of safely and correctly.

Company reviews

No matter what service you are using, you are likely to take a look at previous reviews of the company. This is especially important for asbestos removal as asbestos containing material is extremely dangerous. In fact, if you can find someone who can provide you with a recommendation for an asbestos removal company, that is the best route to take. Also, often asbestos surveyors will be able to recommend companies they have worked with in the past.

If you would like more information on asbestos surveys and removal, our expert team are able to offer a range of advice, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.