Complete Building Assessment Before Demolition

Asbestos Demolition Surveys

Demolition surveys are a specific type of R&D survey covering the entire building or structure scheduled for demolition. They identify all asbestos-containing materials throughout the property, enabling complete removal before demolition begins.

What Is a Demolition Survey?

A demolition survey is a fully intrusive asbestos survey covering the entire building scheduled for demolition. Every accessible area, void, riser, and concealed space must be inspected and sampled. The survey ensures that all asbestos-containing materials are identified and can be safely removed before demolition contractors begin work. This is both a legal requirement under CAR 2012 and a practical necessity — unidentified asbestos discovered during demolition creates immediate health risks, enforcement action, and costly project delays.

CAR 2012HSG264CDM 2015UKAS ISO 17025

When Is a Demolition Survey Required?

  • Before full building demolition
  • Before partial demolition of structures or building sections
  • Prior to structural strip-out ahead of major redevelopment
  • When demolishing temporary or prefabricated buildings
  • Before removing structures containing industrial equipment
  • Prior to soft-strip programmes ahead of demolition

Who Needs a Demolition Survey?

  • Demolition contractors requiring pre-demolition assessments
  • Property developers planning site clearance
  • Local authorities disposing of redundant buildings
  • Industrial operators decommissioning plant and facilities
  • Construction companies managing site enabling works
  • Housing associations demolishing end-of-life housing stock

What You Receive

  • Full demolition asbestos survey report (HSG264 aligned)
  • Comprehensive asbestos register for entire building
  • Detailed location drawings and photographic evidence
  • Risk assessment with removal prioritisation
  • Licensed contractor tender documentation
  • Removal sequence recommendations
  • Guidance for regulatory notifications (HSE)

Our Survey Process

1

Pre-Survey Planning

We review building plans, historical information, and access arrangements. A pre-survey site visit may be conducted for complex buildings.

2

Comprehensive Survey

Our BOHS P402 surveyors conduct fully intrusive inspection of the entire building, including all voids, service risers, plant rooms, and concealed areas.

3

Laboratory Analysis

All samples analysed by UKAS ISO 17025 accredited laboratories with 24-48 hour turnaround.

4

Report & Specifications

Full survey report with asbestos register, removal specifications, and contractor tender documentation delivered.

BOHS Member Surveyors and Analysts
Laboratory analysis by UKAS-accredited laboratories
NEBOSH Construction Health and Safety
Enhanced DBS
Fully Insured
80+ Years Combined Experience

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a demolition survey differ from a refurbishment survey?

A demolition survey must cover the entire building being demolished, whereas a refurbishment survey covers only areas affected by planned refurbishment works. Demolition surveys are typically more extensive and time-consuming.

What buildings require a demolition survey?

Any building or structure constructed before 2000 that is being demolished requires a pre-demolition asbestos survey. This includes all building types: residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure.

Can demolition proceed if asbestos is found?

All asbestos must be removed before demolition begins. We provide removal specifications enabling you to procure licensed removal contractors. Demolition can proceed once removal is complete and clearance certificates are issued.

Do you notify the HSE?

Licensed asbestos removal works require HSE notification. We provide guidance and documentation to support this process. The licensed removal contractor is responsible for submitting notifications.

How long does a demolition survey take?

Survey duration depends on building size and complexity. Small buildings may take 2-3 days; large industrial premises may require several weeks. We provide programme estimates during quotation.

Can you manage the entire removal process?

Yes. We provide project management services covering contractor procurement, site supervision, air monitoring, and clearance certification.

Ready to Discuss Your Requirements?

Contact our team for expert advice and a detailed quotation.