If you’re planning renovation work on a building constructed before 2000, the answer is very likely yes – and it isn’t optional. Before any refurbishment, extension, or demolition work begins on a pre-2000 property, a Refurbishment & Demolition survey is a legal requirement under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (CAR 2012). Here’s what that actually means for your project, and how to avoid the delays that catch people out.

Why the age of the building matters

Asbestos-containing materials were used extensively in UK construction right up until a full ban came into force at the end of 1999. That means anything built or last refurbished before 2000 could contain asbestos in places you wouldn’t expect – textured coatings, floor tiles, boiler cupboards, roof soffits, and the boards behind fuse cupboards are all common culprits. A visual inspection by a builder or homeowner simply can’t rule this out, because many ACMs look identical to non-hazardous materials once painted over or aged.

Management survey vs refurbishment survey

These two survey types get confused constantly, so it’s worth being clear on the difference. A management survey is for occupied buildings that aren’t being altered – it identifies what’s present so it can be safely managed day to day. A refurbishment and demolition survey is far more intrusive, and it’s the one you need before any building work. It involves accessing voids, lifting flooring, and opening up areas that will be disturbed, because the whole point is to find everything before a contractor starts drilling, cutting, or stripping anything out.

What happens if you skip it

Aside from the legal exposure under CAR 2012, skipping the survey creates a genuine safety risk to your contractors and anyone in the building. Disturbing asbestos releases fibres into the air, and the health consequences from inhalation can take decades to appear. Beyond the immediate risk, many contractors will now refuse to start work on a pre-2000 building without a survey report in hand, since it protects them as much as it protects you – so skipping this step can delay your project rather than speed it up.

How long does it take?

Survey reports are typically delivered within 5 working days of the site visit, with sampling results returned within 3 working days. If your renovation timeline is tight, a 24/48-hour turnaround service is available on request, so it’s worth flagging your deadline when you book.

Areas we cover

We carry out refurbishment and demolition surveys across the whole of the North of England, including West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, East Yorkshire, and further afield. See our full Areas Covered page to check we cover your postcode.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a survey for a small extension?

Yes – the requirement applies regardless of the scale of work, provided the building was constructed before 2000 and the work will disturb the fabric of the building.

Can I use an old survey from when I bought the property?

Not for renovation work. A management survey from a property purchase won’t have inspected the intrusive areas your refurbishment will disturb, so a dedicated refurbishment survey is still needed.

What if asbestos is found?

We’ll tell you exactly what’s been found and where, and you can then arrange safe removal by a licensed contractor before work continues. It’s far better to know this before the job starts than to discover it mid-way through.

ACM Contracts connects you with HSG Surveys Ltd, our BOHS-qualified surveying partner, for all field operations, billing and reporting.