Choosing the Right Asbestos Survey for Your Block: What You Need to Ask

If you manage a residential block, choosing the right asbestos survey is essential. The type of survey you need depends on how the building is used and the work planned. Getting this wrong can delay projects, increase costs and put residents at risk. This guide explains the key survey types, the questions you should ask any provider and why choosing a specialist like Summit Environmental can make the process simpler.

Management Survey vs Refurbishment or Demolition Survey

Management Survey

A management survey is the standard survey for an occupied building. Its purpose is to find asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that could be disturbed during normal use or minor maintenance. It is non-intrusive and designed to keep you compliant with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

This is the survey most block managers will need for day-to-day compliance and to maintain an accurate asbestos register.

Refurbishment or Demolition Survey

A refurbishment or demolition survey is required when a block is due for intrusive works. These surveys are fully intrusive because ACMs hidden behind walls, under floors or above ceilings must be identified before any disturbance takes place. This protects contractors and residents and prevents work from being halted once asbestos is uncovered.

If your block is occupied and no major work is planned, a management survey is usually enough. If you are planning any building work, even in only part of the block, you will need a refurbishment survey for those affected areas.

What to Ask Before Appointing an Asbestos Surveyor

Choosing the right surveyor is as important as choosing the right survey. Here are the questions every block manager should ask.

1. Are you accredited?

Surveyors should follow HSG264 and use a UKAS-accredited laboratory for sample analysis. Accreditation is one of the clearest signs that methods and results are reliable.

2. How and where are samples analysed?

Ask if samples are tested in an accredited lab and how long results take. Fast results help prevent delays, especially if you have contractors waiting to begin work.

3. Will the report include clear risk ratings?

A good asbestos report should include a material assessment, a priority assessment and straightforward guidance on what action is needed. Without this, your management plan can be hard to complete.

4. What does your report look like?

Ask for a sample report. You should expect clear photographs, locations, recommendations and an updated asbestos register. Avoid providers whose reports are vague or hard to follow.

5. How intrusive will the survey be?

For refurbishment surveys, you need to know exactly how much opening-up work is required so you can prepare residents or arrange access.

6. Can you support with follow-up actions?

Many blocks need help with re-inspections, updating registers or managing remediation. It helps if your provider can support these tasks as well.

Why Our Approach Works Well for Block Managers

Summit Environmental delivers surveys in line with HSG264, uses UKAS-accredited analysis and provides reports that are clear, practical and easy to use. For block managers, this means:

• Reliable identification of ACMs with the right level of intrusion
• Reports that include risk ratings, photos and clear next steps
• Re-inspection options to keep your asbestos register up to date
• Support with remediation, management plans and contractor oversight

With one provider handling surveys, reporting and follow-up advice, ongoing compliance becomes much easier.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right asbestos survey protects residents, contractors and your organisation. A management survey keeps your block compliant day to day. A refurbishment or demolition survey prevents costly disruption during works. Asking the right questions will help ensure your survey is accurate and fit for purpose.

If you need support with asbestos surveys or management plans for your block, Summit Environmental can help. Contact us today for clear guidance, reliable surveys and ongoing compliance support across the South East.