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5 Reasons to Book an Asbestos Survey Before Buying a Home

Oct 16, 2024

When purchasing a new home, you’ll probably expect to arrange a standard home survey to check for any general issues. But did you know that an asbestos survey isn’t legally required? Despite asbestos being banned in the UK in 1999, it’s still found in many homes built before then.

Booking an asbestos survey should be a top priority, as it’s essential for identifying asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that could pose a threat to your property and your health. By scheduling asbestos testing with professional asbestos contractors, you can prevent health risks and avoid expensive repairs.

Read on to learn more about why you should book an asbestos survey in Edinburgh before buying a new property.

Property Value

The presence of asbestos can have a negative effect on property value. Especially when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are at risk of damage, or have not been properly encapsulated, it poses even greater risks. Encapsulation is an asbestos treatment method where asbestos is coated to prevent exposure.

An asbestos survey helps identify the presence of asbestos, determine its severity and understand your treatment or removal options. With this information, you can decide whether or not to continue with the purchase or attempt to negotiate a better deal based on the asbestos removal or treatment required.

Loft Conversion

Many homes built in the 1960s and 1970s used asbestos for loft insulation due to its insulating properties. If you're planning a loft conversion, it’s essential to conduct asbestos testing. Attempting to renovate an attic that is contaminated with asbestos is dangerous, resulting in harmful fibres being released into your home. An asbestos survey will confirm whether it's safe to carry out a loft conversion or if asbestos services are needed.

Old Heating Systems

In the past, heating systems often used asbestos as an insulation material for pipes and boilers. If the property has not had its heating system upgraded for a long time, it may contain asbestos. Scheduling an asbestos survey will help you assess the safety and potential costs of asbestos removal before undertaking any heating system upgrades.

Buy-to-Let Properties

For those purchasing a property with the intention to rent it out, it’s recommended to conduct an asbestos survey. Although an asbestos survey isn’t a legal requirement in itself, landlords do have a legal obligation to protect tenants from asbestos exposure. That’s why conducting an asbestos survey should be a crucial part of your preparation process to identify and assess the risk of asbestos to future tenants.

The Well-Being of You and Your Loved Ones

Lastly, scheduling an asbestos survey provides peace of mind that your home is safe for you and your loved ones. By arranging a survey before purchasing a home, you can rest assured that your health and well-being are safe from the risks of asbestos.

Book An Asbestos Survey in Edinburgh

If you're buying a new home, ensure it's safe by booking an asbestos survey in Edinburgh with trusted asbestos contractors, Gowrie Contracts. Our asbestos testing will identify and assess the property for asbestos and calculate any potential treatment and removal costs, enabling you to make an informed decision about buying the home.