Don’t Let Asbestos Stall Your Projects in 2026: Start the Year with a Survey

Facilities manager reviewing building plans as part of refurbishment planning and asbestos compliance checks

The start of a new year is when many organisations finalise maintenance plans, approve refurbishment budgets, and line up contractors. But there’s one critical check that often gets missed - asbestos.

If your building was constructed before the year 2000, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may still be present. Failing to identify them before work begins can cause serious delays, unexpected costs, and even legal issues.

Suspended ceiling systems can conceal asbestos-containing materials that should be identified before refurbishment or maintenance work begins.

Why Asbestos Stops Projects in Their Tracks

We regularly see projects paused because:

• Asbestos was discovered mid-works

• Contractors refused to continue

• Emergency surveys were required

• Budgets had to be reapproved

All of this is avoidable with the right survey before work starts.

What the Law Requires

Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, dutyholders must:

• Identify asbestos before refurbishment or demolition

• Assess the risk of disturbance

• Put appropriate control measures in place

This applies to:

• Commercial buildings

• Schools and public buildings

• Rental and managed properties

• Shared residential areas

Choosing the Right Survey

• Asbestos Management Survey: For ongoing occupation and maintenance

• Asbestos Refurbishment Survey: Before intrusive works

  
  

Professional asbestos surveys support safe, compliant refurbishment and maintenance works.

Start the Year the Right Way

An asbestos survey at the planning stage:

• Keeps projects on schedule

• Protects contractors and occupants

• Avoids enforcement action

• Provides clear documentation for compliance

At Breathe Environmental Services Ltd, we deliver fast, clear, HSG264-compliant surveys with modern digital reporting and floor plans.

Book your survey now to ensure your 2026 projects run safely and smoothly - right from the start.

info@breatheenvironmental.co.uk

07859895311