So, what exactly is an R&D asbestos survey? Unlike a standard management survey, which aims to identify and monitor asbestos in a building during normal occupation, an R&D survey is highly intrusive. Its purpose is to locate all asbestos-containing materials before any work begins, particularly those hidden within the building fabric. This includes materials that might be behind walls, under floors, in service ducts, or even within the ground itself if demolition is planned. We carefully dismantle elements of the building to allow full access, making sure no potential asbestos is missed, because once construction starts, it's often too late.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) make it a strict legal requirement for anyone responsible for refurbishment or demolition work to have an R&D asbestos survey carried out before the work starts. This isn't just a recommendation; it's a non-negotiable step. Failing to do so can lead to significant delays, hefty fines, and, most importantly, serious health risks to workers and the public from inhaling asbestos fibres. Our surveys provide the detailed information you need to know exactly what asbestos is present, its type, and where it's located, allowing you to plan for its safe removal or management.

When you call on Southern Asbestos for your R&D survey in Farnham, our experienced team follows a meticulous process. We conduct a thorough inspection, which will involve intrusive access to areas that wouldn't normally be seen. This means carefully opening up walls, ceilings, floors, and other structural elements to search for asbestos-containing materials. We collect samples of any suspected materials and send them to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for testing. The aim is to identify all asbestos materials that could be disturbed by your planned refurbishment or demolition work, giving you a complete picture and peace of mind.