Project 1: Domestic Asbestos Management Survey – 1960s Property, Maidstone

The Instruction

We were contacted by the owner of a 1960s detached house in Maidstone who was planning a programme of internal refurbishment works. The project included:

• Removal of textured ceilings

• Replacement of old vinyl flooring

• Heating system upgrades

• Removal of internal partition walls

Given the age of the property, there was a high likelihood that asbestos-containing materials could be present.

Survey Scope

Our qualified surveyors carried out a full asbestos management survey, which included:

• Inspection of all accessible internal areas

• Loft space inspection

• Sampling of textured coatings (commonly known as Artex)

• Testing of vinyl floor tiles and adhesive

• Inspection of pipework insulation

• Examination of flue systems

All samples were taken in a controlled manner and submitted to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis.

Survey Findings

The survey identified:

• Chrysotile asbestos within textured ceiling coatings

• Asbestos-containing vinyl floor tiles

• Asbestos cement flue pipe in the loft

Importantly, some materials were in good condition and could remain in place if not disturbed. Our detailed asbestos report included material risk assessments, priority assessments, and clear management or removal recommendations.

Project Outcome

Because the asbestos was identified before refurbishment began, the client was able to:

• Arrange licensed asbestos removal where required

• Inform contractors of asbestos locations

• Prevent accidental disturbance

• Avoid project delays

Without a professional domestic asbestos survey in Maidstone, refurbishment works could have exposed contractors and occupants to harmful airborne fibres.

Project 2: Asbestos Refurbishment Survey – Old Stable Conversion, Maidstone

The Instruction

In a separate project, we were appointed to inspect a set of old agricultural stables on a rural property in Maidstone, Kent.

The client intended to modernise and convert the structure into new, improved stables for their horses. However, they did not want to demolish or alter the building without first carrying out a full asbestos inspection.

Agricultural buildings constructed before 2000 are commonly found to contain asbestos cement products, particularly in roofing and cladding materials.

Survey Scope

We conducted a refurbishment asbestos survey to ensure that any materials likely to be disturbed during conversion were properly assessed. The survey included:

• Inspection and sampling of corrugated roofing sheets

• Testing of cement wall cladding panels

• Examination of guttering and rainwater goods

• Inspection of old electrical backing boards

• Assessment of bitumen-based roofing felt

Access equipment was used where necessary to safely inspect elevated areas.

Survey Findings

The laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of:

• Asbestos cement roofing sheets

• Asbestos-containing rainwater goods

• Cement cladding panels containing chrysotile

These were primarily bonded asbestos cement products, which are lower risk when in good condition. However, because the planned refurbishment would disturb these materials, removal was recommended in line with current regulations.

Project Outcome

Following receipt of our detailed refurbishment survey report, the client was able to:

• Budget accurately for asbestos removal

• Engage appropriate licensed contractors

• Comply fully with asbestos regulations

• Proceed safely with stable conversion

By arranging an asbestos survey prior to works, the client avoided potential enforcement action, unexpected delays, and health risks.

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