The awareness about the serious health problems caused by asbestos has resulted in strict enforcement of several rules controlling its availability and use. All forms of asbestos other than white are forbidden by most governments. Even white asbestos is allowed only in some high priority areas. The regulations in the UK make it compulsory to carry out asbestos surveys for all residential or commercial buildings raised or restored before 2000.

Asbestos surveys look into the possibility of asbestos presence in construction materials used in the building. Depending on the outcome of the study, the possibility of contact with any material showing asbestos presence must be minimized, as it could cause serious harm. It is ensured by these surveys that hazardous asbestos fibres are not let free in the air, which could threaten the people living nearby.

Asbestos surveys falls under three major categories. In the first type of survey, all areas of the structure, which can be reached with relative ease, are scanned for asbestos. It is taken for granted that other parts of the building could contain asbestos and thus people must not be exposed to them. In Type 2, which is carried out with the same goal as Type 1, samples suspected to contain asbestos are analyzed in a laboratory. In the third type of survey, the motive is to remove building parts that are found to contain asbestos. This is done prior to revamping a building or before bringing it down, so that asbestos laden debris can be dealt with in a safe manner without endangering the people living nearby.

Not conducting an asbestos survey where it is required by law can lead to a heavy fine for building owners and contractors in the UK – see residential care homes to learn more for tips on the importance of house safety. Moreover, for construction companies, not making efforts to minimise exposure to asbestos can lead to other problems like a loss of goodwill in the market.