Asbestos Demolition Survey | Buckhurst Hill

Project Overview:

Before the planned demolition of this residential property in Buckhurst Hill, Essex, our team was instructed to carry out a full asbestos demolition survey. The aim was to locate and identify all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within the building to ensure complete removal prior to demolition works – keeping both contractors and the surrounding environment safe.

Scope of Work:

Unlike a management or refurbishment survey, a demolition survey is fully intrusive and comprehensive. Our surveyors methodically inspected every part of the property – from the main structure to service ducts, floor voids, roof spaces, and hidden cavities. All suspect materials were carefully sampled and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory to provide definitive results.

Findings:

• Ceiling Coatings: Chrysotile (white asbestos) was detected in textured coatings across several rooms on the first floor.
• Insulating Boards: Asbestos insulating board (AIB) was identified behind the boiler area and within some partition walls.
• Pipe Lagging: Thermal insulation on sections of the heating pipework was confirmed to contain asbestos, with sections showing signs of deterioration.
• Roof Panels: Cement-based roof sheets with asbestos content were located in an external outbuilding.
• No asbestos found in brickwork, window frames, or general plaster surfaces.

Recommendations:

• Full Removal Prior to Demolition: All identified ACMs must be safely removed by a licensed asbestos contractor before demolition work begins.
• Air Monitoring: Air testing should be undertaken during and after removal to ensure fibre levels remain within safe limits.
• Waste Disposal: All asbestos waste to be disposed of at an authorised hazardous waste facility in line with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
• Clearance Certification: A Certificate of Reoccupation should be issued following removal to confirm the site is asbestos-free and ready for demolition.

Conclusion:

The demolition asbestos survey provided the client with a complete picture of all asbestos materials within the property. With clear removal recommendations and full documentation in place, the demolition can now proceed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with HSE requirements.