Asbestos Management Surveys
Management surveys identify the presence, location, and condition of asbestos-containing materials in buildings during normal occupation. Under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, the duty holder for non-domestic premises must assess whether asbestos is, or is liable to be, present. A management survey is the usual way to do this for premises built before 2000, and these surveys form the foundation of your asbestos management plan.
What Is an Asbestos Management Survey?
An asbestos management survey is a standard survey designed to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and extent of any suspect asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building which could be damaged or disturbed during normal occupancy. The survey involves sampling and analysis to confirm asbestos presence or absence, and assessing the condition and risk from those materials. Management surveys normally involve minor intrusive work, such as lifting ceiling tiles and opening access panels, risers and service ducts, and all areas are inspected as far as reasonably practicable. Any areas that cannot be accessed are recorded in the report and presumed to contain asbestos, and any materials presumed to contain asbestos rather than sampled are identified as presumed.
When Is a Management Survey Required?
- Before purchasing or leasing commercial or industrial premises
- When taking on duty holder responsibilities for a building
- To create or update an asbestos register and management plan
- For ongoing compliance with CAR 2012 regulations
- Before minor maintenance or repair work that may disturb ACMs
- When existing asbestos information is outdated or incomplete
Who Needs a Management Survey?
- Commercial landlords and property managers
- Housing associations and social landlords
- Facilities managers responsible for building maintenance
- Educational establishments (schools, colleges, universities)
- Healthcare premises (hospitals, clinics, care homes)
- Industrial and warehouse operators
- Local authorities and public sector bodies
What You Receive
- Full asbestos survey report aligned with HSG264
- Asbestos register documenting all identified ACMs
- Material assessment scores for each ACM
- Priority assessment scoring where sufficient building information is available
- Clear photographic evidence with precise location referencing
- Prioritised remedial recommendations
- Guidance for creating or updating your asbestos management plan
Our Survey Process
Initial Consultation
We discuss your building, its use, any existing asbestos information, and your compliance requirements to scope the survey correctly.
Site Survey
Our surveyors, holding BOHS P402 – Surveying and Sampling Strategies for Asbestos in Buildings, conduct a systematic inspection, sampling suspect materials with minimal disruption to building operations.
Laboratory Analysis
Rapid laboratory analysis: samples are analysed by UKAS-accredited laboratories.
Report & Register
You receive a comprehensive report with asbestos register, risk assessments, and practical recommendations for ongoing management.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a management survey take?
Survey duration depends on building size and complexity. A typical small commercial property takes half a day, while larger premises may require one to three days. We provide estimated timescales during the quotation stage.
Do I need to vacate the building during the survey?
No. Management surveys are designed for occupied buildings and are conducted with minimal disruption. Our surveyors work around your normal operations.
What is the difference between a management survey and an R&D survey?
A management survey is for normal occupation and maintenance — it normally involves only minor intrusive work, such as lifting ceiling tiles and opening access panels. A Refurbishment and Demolition (R&D) survey is required before intrusive works and involves destructive inspection to access hidden areas.
How often should the asbestos register be updated?
The asbestos management plan, including the register, should be reviewed at least every 12 months, and sooner if circumstances change, for example building work, a change of use, or ACMs being removed or repaired. Separately, the condition of known and presumed ACMs must be inspected periodically, at intervals set according to risk, so damaged or higher-risk materials are checked more often.
What if asbestos is found during the survey?
Finding asbestos does not automatically mean removal is required. We provide risk assessments and recommendations. Often, ACMs in good condition can be safely managed in place with appropriate controls.
Are your surveyors qualified?
All our surveyors hold BOHS P402 – Surveying and Sampling Strategies for Asbestos in Buildings certification. Our team includes enhanced DBS-checked staff. Clearscan is a BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society) Affiliate Member.
Related Projects
See how we've delivered similar services
Asbestos Management Surveys Across the UK
Ready to Discuss Your Requirements?
Contact our team for expert advice and a detailed quotation.