What is asbestos? It is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral. It was a commonly used building material, particularly as part of cement products, floor tiles and roofing shingles where its durability and resistance to heat were highly valued.

The strength and microscopic nature of its fibres however make it very dangerous when inhaled, with the potential to cause life threatening ailments which sometimes take some years to show symptoms.

Whether any action needs to be taken - for example, complete removal by specialists - depends on the type of asbestos detected, its volume and whether dust particles are likely to be liberated, for example by renovation/decoration at some future point.

There are six different types of asbestos of which crocidolite, or blue asbestos, is considered the most hazardous.

The six types of asbestos are:

There are now two asbestos types although there used to be 3. The types of survey are called - Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3, but these have been reclassified and absorbed into Management Surveys (Type 1 Asbestos Survey) and Refurbishment and Demolition Surveys (Type 2 Asbestos Survey). You need to decide whether you are looking to maintain the asbestos so as not to cause damage to it and release the dangerous fibres into the air or if you are looking to get the asbestos removed entirely (normally because you are completing building works).

After an intrusive investigation, a management survey gives direction on how to protect against any risk without any major removal of asbestos.

After a detailed, intrusive investigation and a comprehensive assessment, these surveys give directions about where asbestos detected has to be removed or whether it can be managed.

The cost of an asbestos survey depends on a few factors, particularly on the size of the property. The costs range from £399 for a standard construction 2 bedroom property and progress upwards from here.

We help clients whether they are based in London, Surrey, Berkshire or anywhere in the Home Counties.