Buying a property built prior to 2000?
If you are considering the purchase of a property built prior to the year 2000 there is a possibility that it may contain asbestos. Not managed properly, asbestos can be a serious hazard to health and a financial liability. For these reasons we recommend a Pre-Purchase asbestos survey prior to the purchase of your property.
The purpose of the Pre-Purchase Asbestos Survey is to locate and identify any Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM’s) that could be disturbed during the day-to-day use of the property. This is a visual survey of all surfaces and visible components that make up the property.
Our surveyor will sample any suspect ACM’s where accessible and record the location, extent and condition of the suspect material. The material is photographed and the sample location recorded on a floor plan, this information is gathered electronically on site and is used alongside the sample analysis results and our recommendations to generate the Asbestos Survey Report. The report will be delivered to you by email in PDF format, typically within 2 working days following the survey.
Identifying Asbestos Containing Materials
Safety Survey’s consultants are fully-qualified to carry out asbestos surveys. Our experienced surveyors will:
- Carry out a non-intrusive but thorough survey
- Establish whether ACMs are present
- Assess ACM condition
- Compile report, including risk assessment
- Provide expert advice on professional removal if required
We’re experts in identifying and managing Asbestos Containing Materials. If you are worried that the property you’re planning to buy may contain asbestos, call us on 01582 966 700
Asbestos was used extensively in UK construction materials throughout the twentieth century. Research emerged towards the end of the century regarding the harmful effects of airborne asbestos. It was finally banned for use in 1999.
It depends on the material type, condition and location. Some materials are more friable and when damaged are more likely to release asbestos fibres into the atmosphere. So long as the ACM is in good condition and remains undisturbed the risk is minimal. If the ACM is damaged or the condition deteriorates there’s a risk that fibres could become airborne.
ACMs are a liability and it can be a costly process to have them removed professionally. Their presence could affect the valuation of your property. It may be that you decide to factor the cost of removal into your purchase offer.
