This isn't just another checklist item; it's about safety and legal compliance. Before any major work that involves disturbing the fabric of a building – whether it's a renovation, refurbishment, or full demolition – the law states you must have an R&D asbestos survey. Unlike a standard Management Survey, which aims to identify and track visible asbestos during normal building use, an R&D survey is much more intrusive. We actively search for hidden asbestos that would be exposed during your project, including in areas not normally accessible. Without one, you risk serious delays, hefty fines, and, most importantly, putting workers and the public in harm’s way by unknowingly releasing hazardous asbestos fibres.

Our Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys are a deep dive into your property. Our trained and experienced surveyors will meticulously inspect all areas where refurbishment or demolition work will take place. This means we often need to cause damage to access hidden voids, behind walls, under floorboards, above ceilings, and within structural elements. We collect samples of any suspect materials, including those in hard-to-reach places, and send them to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis. This process allows us to conclusively identify all asbestos-containing materials present, their type, and their condition, providing you with a complete picture before your project even begins.

The detailed report you receive after our R&D survey is your project's roadmap for safety. It clearly identifies all asbestos-containing materials, their location, and provides recommendations for safe removal or management. Armed with this knowledge, you can plan your refurbishment or demolition work effectively, budgeting for safe asbestos removal where necessary. This essential information allows contractors to work safely, avoid unexpected encounters with asbestos, and maintain a safe environment for everyone involved. It’s about proactivity, preventing costly delays, and keeping your project on track and compliant with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.