Domestic Asbestos Management Survey | Colchester

Location: Colchester, Essex
Survey Type: Asbestos Management Survey (CAR 2012 Compliance)
Survey Date: 11/09/2025

1. Objective:

The owners of this Colchester property requested a management asbestos survey to gain clarity on potential asbestos risks within their home. The goal was to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and provide practical advice for keeping the property safe during everyday use and minor maintenance.

2. Survey Methodology

Our team carried out a systematic inspection of the house, checking all accessible rooms, service areas, and outbuildings. Suspect materials were discreetly sampled and sent for laboratory analysis, while each area was recorded for condition and likelihood of disturbance. The survey was designed to be non-intrusive, ensuring no unnecessary damage to the building.

3. Key Findings

The assessment confirmed the presence of several asbestos materials common in homes of this age:

• Ceiling Finishes: Laboratory testing confirmed asbestos in textured ceiling coatings in the lounge and hallway. These were in stable condition with no immediate concerns.
• Garage Roof: Corrugated cement sheets containing asbestos were present on the garage. While weathered, they remained intact at the time of inspection.
• Service Voids: Pipe boxing in the kitchen was noted as containing asbestos insulating board (AIB). It was largely intact, though some minor surface wear was visible.
• Clear Results: No asbestos detected in floor coverings, loft insulation, or wall finishes.

Note: The full survey report contains a detailed register with photographs, locations, and specific risk information for each of these materials.

4. Conclusion & Recommendations

The survey confirmed the presence of several asbestos-containing materials within the property. The following actions are recommended:

1. Keep the asbestos-containing ceilings in place and monitor them periodically for changes.
2. Consider encapsulating the AIB around pipework to protect it from further wear.
3. Plan for safe replacement of the asbestos cement garage roof when upgrading or repairing the outbuilding.
4. Retain the asbestos survey report and register so that any future contractors are aware of the ACMs before starting work.

This survey gave the homeowner a clear understanding of where asbestos is present and how it should be managed. With no high-risk items identified, the property can continue to be safely occupied, provided recommended precautions are followed.