Asbestos Commercial Management Survey | Norwood

Location: Norwood, South East London
Survey Type: Asbestos Management Survey (Compliance with CAR 2012)
Survey Date: 21/10/2025

Project Overview:

We were recently appointed to carry out a commercial asbestos management survey at a cafe and deli premises in Norwood, South East London. The building, a traditional high-street property with a mix of ground-floor retail and upper-floor accommodation, required a full asbestos assessment to support ongoing maintenance and ensure compliance with current regulations.

Survey Methodology:

Our surveyor conductor a detailed visual and sampling inspection across the entire property – including the main shop floor, kitchen and storage areas, basement, and external fabric. The survey was completed in accordance with HSG264 guidance, and all suspect materials were sampled and analysed by a UKAS-accredited laboratory. Care was taken to minimise disruption to the client’s business operations throughout.

Key Findings:

• Ceiling Tiles: Asbestos was identified in a small number of ceiling tiles within the rear preparation area. The tiles were intact and securely fixed.
• Pipe Lagging: Minor asbestos insulation residues were located around redundant pipework in the basement.
• External Elements: The exterior signage backing board was confirmed as asbestos insulating board (AIB).
• No asbestos detected in the walls, floor coverings, or decorative finishes of the customer areas.

The Asbestos Register, which contains a full list of all identified materials, their condition, and a formal risk assessment, is available in the main survey report.

Conclusion & Recommendations:

To ensure the site is managed safely and in full compliance with regulations, the following strategic actions are recommended:

1. Encapsulation: The AIB signage backing should be encapsulated and left in place until such time as replacement or refurbishment is planned.
2. Ongoing Management: The ceiling tiles and lagging residues should be included in the site’s asbestos management plan and reinspected annually.
3. Awareness & Record Keeping: Contractors and maintenance staff should be briefed on the asbestos register prior to carrying out any intrusive works.
4. Future Works: Should future refurbishment or structural work be planned, a more intrusive refurbishment survey will be required to assess concealed materials.

By diligently following these recommendations, the duty holder can effectively manage asbestos risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide a safe working environment.

Outcome

The completed management survey provided the cafe owners with an up-to-date asbestos register and management plan, giving them confidence that their premises meet HSE requirements. The property can now be maintained safely, with all asbestos-containing materials clearly identified and risk-managed.