The purchase and ownership of a house is a huge decision for anyone. 

However, if your property was constructed before the 1990s, one thing that most homeowners don’t consider could be asbestos. 

What makes this situation difficult is that the danger may not be visible to the naked eye. 

What is an Asbestos Survey Exactly? 

An asbestos survey is a thorough examination of your premises to determine the presence of any materials that have asbestos in them. 

The asbestos survey goes beyond a casual walk around. Experts examine various parts, may take some samples, test them for asbestos, and find out if it is hazardous or not. 

All this to achieve one thing: 

• Identify locations of possible asbestos 

• Determine the state of asbestos 

• Offer solutions going forward 

This is because asbestos itself isn’t always dangerous. It poses threats only if it’s disturbed. 

Why Older Homes Have More Asbestos Risks 

If your house has been constructed before 1990, chances are high that some parts of your home may have been covered with asbest 

Why? 

It was quite common back then because: 

• It’s tough 

• It can withstand fire 

• It’s cheap 

Look for it in products such as: 

• Sheet cladding 

• Roofs 

• Ceiling 

• Insulation 

This means your seemingly modern home could still have it! 

The Real Danger (And Why You Should Care) 

There is a good reason why asbestos has been called the “silent killer.” 

If it becomes disturbed, it gives off small fibres that can become airborne. When breathed in, it can cause significant health issues. 

Why is that scary? 

Because you will not know right away. It could take years to have any symptoms arise. 

That is why most people decide to have an asbestos survey done first before renovating, purchasing, or simply out of curiosity. 

When Is An Asbestos Survey Needed? 

Some specific occasions when an asbestos survey should be conducted are the following: 

• Prior to purchasing a house 

It is necessary to be aware of the situation completely and avoid unpleasant surprises afterwards. 

• Before carrying out renovations and demolitions 

Working with unidentified materials may lead to hazardous outcomes. 

• In case of owning an old house not previously inspected for asbestos. 

What You Receive from an Asbestos Survey by Professionals 

  

A correct asbestos survey isn’t simply about saying ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. 

Instead, it provides you with the following information: 

Location of the material containing asbestos 

Condition of the asbestos (safe, compromised, or dangerous) 

Recommended action (none or removal) 

Such a report allows you to make sound judgments, whether it’s doing nothing, handling it, or removing it. 

It’s All About Peace of Mind 

All in all, an asbestos survey is not like any other survey or test. 

It’s about being sure that your property is secure. 

Since once you know what the problem is, you will be ready to deal with anything. 

Closing Remarks 

Asbestos is usually only thought of when necessary. 

However, if you have an old building, it would be wise to investigate whether or not you should have an asbestos inspection. 

A straightforward test could give you certainty, assurance, and above all, peace of mind at home.