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Do You Need a Management or Refurbishment Asbestos Survey? Here’s How to Tell
- Lewis Evans
- Sep 8
- 2 min read
If you own, manage, or are planning work on a property built before 2000, you’ll likely need an asbestos survey at some point. But which type—management or refurbishment—is right for your situation? Choosing the correct survey isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s essential for safety, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
What is a Management Asbestos Survey?
A management asbestos survey is the standard survey for most occupied buildings. Its main aim is to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any suspected asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that could be disturbed during normal occupation, routine maintenance, or minor works.
Key features:
Non-intrusive: Minimal disruption to occupants and building fabric.
Identifies ACMs that could be disturbed during day-to-day activities.
Required for ongoing property management and compliance with regulations.
Covers all accessible areas, including lofts, basements, and service ducts.
When do you need it?
For ongoing management of asbestos in commercial, domestic, or industrial properties.
When buying, selling, or leasing a property.
To comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
What is a Refurbishment Asbestos Survey?
A refurbishment asbestos survey (sometimes called a refurbishment and demolition survey) is required before any intrusive work—such as renovations, structural changes, or demolition—takes place. This survey is more invasive and aims to identify all ACMs that could be disturbed by the proposed works.
Key features:
Intrusive: Includes opening up walls, ceilings, floors, and other areas.
Required before any refurbishment, demolition, or intrusive maintenance.
Ensures contractors and occupants are not exposed to hidden asbestos risks.
Typically carried out in vacant areas or during planned void periods.
When do you need it?
Before any planned refurbishment or demolition work, regardless of the building’s age.
Prior to installing new kitchens, bathrooms, rewiring, or structural changes.
When upgrading heating systems, windows, or making significant alterations.
Why Does the Right Survey Matter?
Choosing the correct survey is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting people and managing risk. An inadequate survey can lead to:
Unexpected asbestos exposure during works
Project delays and increased costs
Legal and insurance complications
How to Decide Which Survey You Need
Routine occupation/maintenance? → Management Survey
Planning intrusive works/renovation? → Refurbishment Survey
Not sure which asbestos survey you need? Reach out to Breathe Environmental Services for honest, expert advice. We’re happy to talk through your project and recommend the right survey—no obligation, just straightforward guidance.
Get Expert Advice
At Breathe Environmental Services, we offer both management and refurbishment asbestos surveys across Cardiff, London, and nationwide. All surveys are carried out in accordance with HSG 264 guidance, with fast turnaround and UKAS-accredited laboratory analysis.
Ready to book your asbestos survey or want a free quote? Contact Breathe Environmental Services today for fast, reliable service and open communication at every step.
📞 Call 07859 895311
✉️ Email info@breatheenvironmental.co.uk
We offer competitive pricing, nationwide coverage, and results you can trust - delivered in 1–3 working days.
