Understanding the Different Types of Asbestos Surveys

Not all asbestos surveys are the same. Whether you’re managing a workplace, planning a refurbishment, or demolishing a property, the law requires different survey types. This guide explains Management Surveys, Refurbishment/Demolition Surveys, and Reinspection Surveys — helping you understand which one you need, and why compliance is critical for safety.

Why asbestos surveys matter

Asbestos remains one of the most significant health risks in UK buildings constructed before 2000. The only way to manage that risk properly is through accurate surveying. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 makes surveys a legal requirement in many situations, ensuring dutyholders identify, record and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

Choosing the right type of survey depends on the purpose of the building, the work planned, and the legal duties involved.

Management Survey

A Management Survey is the standard survey for occupied buildings. Its purpose is to locate, as far as reasonably practicable, the presence and condition of ACMs that could be disturbed during normal occupancy, including routine maintenance.

This survey typically involves:

Inspecting accessible areas of the building
Sampling suspected materials for laboratory analysis
Assessing the condition of any ACMs found
Recommending management actions to keep people safe

Management Surveys are not overly intrusive. They are designed to allow the building to continue being used while providing the information needed to create an asbestos register and management plan.

Refurbishment and Demolition Survey (R&D Survey)

If you plan major works that will disturb the fabric of the building, a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey is legally required. This type of survey is more intrusive than a Management Survey and may involve destructive inspection to access hidden materials.

Key features include:

Locating all ACMs in areas where refurbishment or demolition work is planned
Full sampling and testing of suspect materials
Detailed reporting to ensure ACMs are removed or safely managed before works begin

Because of the invasive nature of this survey, it is usually conducted in unoccupied areas, or even after a building has been vacated ahead of demolition.

Reinspection Survey

A Reinspection Survey is not a different survey method but a repeat of a Management Survey carried out at regular intervals. Its aim is to check the condition of previously identified ACMs and ensure they remain in a safe state.

This is especially important for dutyholders in workplaces, schools, and public buildings. Regular reinspection ensures asbestos registers remain up to date and risk assessments are based on current information.

Which survey do you need?

Everyday building use: Management Survey
Planning refurbishment or demolition: Refurbishment and Demolition Survey
Ongoing asbestos management: Reinspection Survey

Failing to choose the correct survey type can expose people to unnecessary risk and put you at risk of enforcement action.

Compliance and peace of mind

Getting the right survey is not just a tick-box exercise — it protects people’s health and ensures you comply with the law. By commissioning qualified surveyors and acting on their recommendations, you can manage asbestos responsibly and with confidence.

If you are unsure which survey you need, seek professional advice before carrying out any works. A clear survey now can prevent serious problems later.