When you plan to alter or knock down a building, you must assume asbestos is present until proven otherwise. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012) make it a legal requirement for the duty holder – whether you're a homeowner, builder, developer, or business owner – to have an R&D survey done before any intrusive work. Unlike a standard management survey, which aims to monitor asbestos in its normal use, an R&D survey is highly intrusive. It specifically looks for all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in areas that will be disturbed, ensuring no dangerous fibres are accidentally released during the construction process. It's about knowing exactly what you're dealing with, allowing you to plan work safely.

A Refurbishment and Demolition survey is a thorough, destructive inspection. Our qualified surveyors will gain access to all areas, including those not usually accessible, often requiring us to lift floorboards, break through walls, open up ceilings, and investigate behind panels. We go deep into the building's fabric to uncover any hidden asbestos. We look for all types of ACMs that could be present in a building constructed before the year 2000, including asbestos cement, asbestos insulating board (AIB), textured coatings (like Artex), floor tiles, pipe insulation, and more. Our aim is to find all reasonably foreseeable asbestos, assess its condition, and provide you with clear, actionable information.

Failing to conduct a proper R&D survey before refurbishment or demolition work can lead to serious consequences. You, as the duty holder, have a legal responsibility under CAR 2012 to protect anyone who might be exposed to asbestos. This includes your own workers, contractors, and even members of the public. Not only are there heavy fines and potential legal action, but more importantly, you risk exposing people to deadly asbestos fibres. Our surveys provide you with the comprehensive report you need to demonstrate compliance and give your contractors the vital information they need to work safely, or to arrange for professional asbestos removal where necessary.