Asbestos Refurbishment Survey – Old Stable Conversion, Billericay, Essex

The Instruction

We were appointed to inspect a set of old agricultural stables located on a rural property in Billericay, Essex.

The client planned to modernise and convert the existing structure into new, upgraded stables for their horses. However, before carrying out any demolition or structural alterations, they wanted to commission a full asbestos inspection to ensure the building was safe and compliant.

Agricultural buildings constructed prior to 2000 frequently contain asbestos cement materials, particularly within roofing sheets, wall cladding, and rainwater goods. Identifying these materials before refurbishment is essential to avoid accidental disturbance.

Survey Scope

We carried out a comprehensive refurbishment asbestos survey to assess any materials likely to be disturbed during the stable conversion. The survey included:

• Inspection and sampling of corrugated roofing sheets

• Testing of cement wall cladding panels

• Examination of guttering and rainwater goods

• Inspection of older electrical backing boards

• Assessment of bitumen-based roofing felt

Where required, appropriate access equipment was used to safely inspect elevated roof areas and external structures.

Survey Findings

Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of:

• Asbestos cement roofing sheets

• Asbestos-containing rainwater goods

• Cement cladding panels containing chrysotile

These materials were primarily bonded asbestos cement products, which present a lower risk when intact and undamaged. However, due to the planned refurbishment works, disturbance was unavoidable. In line with current asbestos regulations, controlled removal was recommended before conversion could proceed.

Project Outcome

Upon receiving our detailed refurbishment survey report, the client was able to:

• Accurately budget for asbestos removal works

• Appoint appropriately licensed asbestos contractors

• Ensure full compliance with asbestos legislation

• Proceed confidently with the stable conversion project

By arranging an asbestos survey in Billericay prior to starting works, the client avoided potential enforcement action, unexpected project delays, and serious health risks associated with uncontrolled asbestos disturbance.

Why Asbestos Surveys Are Essential in Maidstone & Kent

Properties across Maidstone and Kent often date back to periods when asbestos was widely used in construction. Common locations include:

• Textured coatings

• Vinyl floor tiles

• Garage and stable roofing

• Soffits and fascias

• Cement cladding panels

• Insulation boards

• Pipe lagging

If your building was constructed before 2000, asbestos may be present — even in residential or agricultural settings.

Commissioning an asbestos management survey or refurbishment survey ensures:

• Legal compliance

• Safe working conditions

• Clear documentation for contractors

• Reduced risk of fibre release

• Peace of mind before renovation