Your building may need one type of asbestos survey, the other, or maybe even both kinds, depending on how the premises is used and the construction work that might be planned. If you’re not sure, we’re always glad to help you out with professional advice.

In a word, yes. Asbestos was widely used in UK construction from the early 1900s onwards, and wasn’t banned in the UK until 1999. This means more or less every original or refurbished building is likely to contain asbestos. It’s safer to assume it is there than not.

You can’t tell without a survey, simply because the substance is usually hidden inside other materials that contain it, which can themselves be hidden from view. Simply looking at the walls, ceilings and other areas won’t tell you what you need to know – you need expert help.