Domestic Asbestos Refurbishment Survey | Dartford

Location: Residential Property, Dartford, Kent
Survey Type: Asbestos Management Survey (CAR 2012 Compliance)
Survey Date: 19/06/2025

Objective:

The main aim of this Asbestos Domestic Refurbishment Survey was to identify and locate all Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) within the designated residential property in Dartford, Kent, prior to the planned refurbishment activities. This survey is essential for safeguarding the health and safety of both workers and occupants by pinpointing all ACMs that could be disturbed during the refurbishment, thereby facilitating their safe removal or management in accordance with asbestos regulations.

Scope of Work:

This survey was entirely intrusive and involved thorough inspection and sampling of materials that would be affected during the planned refurbishment. The scope encompassed, but was not limited to, walls, ceilings, floors, service ducts, concealed voids, and areas behind fixtures and fittings in all rooms earmarked for refurbishment. Destructive inspection methods were utilized when necessary to access hidden areas. The survey aimed to deliver a comprehensive record of all ACMs present within the refurbishment footprint.

Methodology:

The survey was conducted by a certified asbestos surveyor in compliance with the standards for a Refurbishment/Demolition Survey (as outlined in HSG264 Asbestos: The survey guide). A methodical approach was adopted to meticulously inspect all areas within the scope of the planned refurbishment. Samples of all suspected materials were gathered for analysis by an accredited laboratory. The results were utilized to evaluate the type, condition, and location of ACMs, and to offer clear guidance for their safe management or removal prior to the commencement of refurbishment work.

Key Findings:

• Presence of ACMs: ACMs were detected in various areas designated for refurbishment.
• Types of ACMs: The specific types of ACMs identified included asbestos insulation board (AIB), asbestos cement products, and bitumen-backed floor tiles.
• Location of ACMs: AIB was found in the boxing around pipework in the bathroom and kitchen, as well as in infill panels within the loft space. Asbestos cement was discovered in the internal window sills of the living room.
• Condition and Risk Assessment: The AIB was generally in fair condition but, due to its friable nature and the intrusive nature of refurbishment works, poses a high risk if disturbed. The asbestos cement window sills were in good condition but will require careful handling if removed or altered. The bitumen-backed floor tiles were also in good condition but will become a high risk if broken or mechanically disturbed during floor removal.

Recommendations:

Based on the findings of the survey, it is crucial that: All identified Asbestos Containing Materials (ACMs) are safely eliminated by a licensed asbestos removal contractor before any refurbishment activities commence in those specific areas. A comprehensive plan for asbestos removal is created and adhered to, which includes proper containment, air monitoring, and waste disposal protocols. All personnel engaged in the refurbishment are informed about the locations of ACMs and the procedures for their safe handling or avoidance until they are removed. A ‘Certificate of Reoccupation’ or ‘Clearance Certificate’ is secured after the completion of asbestos removal activities to verify that the areas are safe for subsequent refurbishment. Consideration is given to the management of any remaining ACMs that fall outside the current refurbishment scope but were identified during the survey, in line with an appropriate management plan.

Conclusion:

This Asbestos Domestic Refurbishment Survey offers vital information for the safe planning and execution of the proposed refurbishment activities at the residential property located in Dartford, Kent. The thorough identification of ACMs and the explicit recommendations for their removal are essential measures to safeguard the health of all individuals involved and to ensure adherence to asbestos regulations.