If you have never had an asbestos survey before, you might be wondering what the process involves. This guide walks you through every step of the survey process, from your initial enquiry through to receiving your final report.
The 8-Step Survey Process
Initial Enquiry & Quote
You contact us with details about your property — type, size, location, and the reason for the survey. We provide a fixed-price quote within one working day. No hidden charges — the price we quote is the price you pay.
Booking & Preparation
We arrange a convenient survey date, usually within 2–3 working days. For management surveys, you don't need to do anything special — just ensure the surveyor can access all rooms including lofts, basements, and cupboards. For refurbishment surveys, you'll need to provide your scope of works so the surveyor knows which areas to focus on.
Surveyor Arrival & Briefing
Your BOHS P402 qualified surveyor arrives at the agreed time with all necessary equipment — sampling tools, PPE, camera, and sample bags. They'll introduce themselves, explain the process, and ask any clarifying questions about the property.
Visual Inspection
The surveyor systematically inspects every accessible area of the property. They look for materials that are known to commonly contain asbestos — textured coatings, floor tiles, pipe insulation, cement products, fuse boards, and more. Each suspect material is photographed and its location recorded.
Bulk Sampling
When a suspect material is identified, the surveyor takes a small bulk sample (typically 2cm²). Samples are collected using wet methods to minimise any fibre release, then sealed in labelled sample bags. The number of samples depends on the property and the number of different suspect materials found.
Laboratory Analysis
Samples are sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for Polarised Light Microscopy (PLM) analysis. This determines whether asbestos is present, what type it is (chrysotile, amosite, or crocidolite), and its approximate concentration. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours.
Report Preparation
Once lab results are received, the surveyor prepares your comprehensive survey report. This includes an executive summary, methodology, detailed findings for each material, condition assessments, risk scores, photographs, and management recommendations.
Report Delivery & Advice
Your complete report is delivered electronically within the agreed turnaround time (typically 48 hours for management surveys). The report includes an asbestos register for ongoing compliance. We're available to answer any questions and advise on next steps.
How Long Does a Survey Take?
| Survey Type | On-Site Time | Report Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| Management Survey (house) | 1–2 hours | 48 hours |
| Management Survey (commercial) | 2–6 hours | 48–72 hours |
| Refurbishment Survey | 2–4 hours | 48–72 hours |
| Demolition Survey | 4–8 hours | 3–5 working days |
What Does Your Report Include?
Tips for Preparing for Your Survey
- Ensure all rooms are accessible, including loft hatches, basements, and storage cupboards
- Move any items blocking access to walls, ceilings, or floor edges
- If possible, provide any building plans, previous survey reports, or property history
- For refurbishment surveys, have your scope of works ready
- Pets should be secured away from the survey areas
- You do not need to vacate the property for a management survey
Ready to Book Your Survey?
Fixed-price quotes. BOHS P402 qualified. Edinburgh & Central Belt coverage.
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