Asbestos Management for Property Managers

For blocks of flats or houses converted into flats there’s a legal requirement to carry out an Asbestos Management Survey of the common parts. This allows the Duty Holder, Property Manager or Residents’ Association to know the location of any Asbestos.

The Asbestos Management Plan / Property Register

The Asbestos Survey also provides the information necessary to put together the Asbestos Management Plan /Property Register to ensure that those living in or visiting the property are safe.

The Register states where asbestos has been located what the risk is, what action is required and who is responsible. The Asbestos report and register should be accessible for those living in the property, trades carrying out works and other parties visiting so they know where asbestos is present. Labelling of asbestos materials is also advisable so there is clarity as to where asbestos is located so it is not disturbed.

How often does the reinspection of asbestos need to be carried out ?

To manage any Asbestos identified in the common parts of blocks of flats or converted houses the reinspection of the Asbestos previously identified should be taking place annually as a minimum requirement.

How do you best to manage asbestos ?

We are retained by a number of property management companies to carry out asbestos surveys of all of the blocks of flats they manage. We reinspect the properties on an annual basis to ensure that all asbestos present is managed and records are accurate so the buildings are safe for users of the building.

This means the Property Management Company know they are on top of any asbestos issues that they are compliant with legislation and it frees their time up to tackle other things.

Examples of Asbestos Found in Communal Areas of Flats

When surveying blocks of flats and other residential buildings, we regularly come across asbestos-containing materials in shared areas. Some are visible, while others may be concealed beneath carpets or within building features that are easy to overlook.

The photographs below show examples identified during our inspections of communal areas on behalf of property managers and managing agents.

Floor Tiles Beneath Carpet in a Communal Stairwell

Asbestos-containing floor tiles identified beneath carpet in a communal stairwell.

Textured Coatings (Artex) in Communal Stairwells

Asbestos-containing textured coatings identified on ceilings in the common parts of a residential block.

Asbestos Cement Roofing on Garages

Asbestos cement roof sheets identified on a terrace of garages serving residential properties.

Asbestos Insulation Board (AIB) in Communal Landings

Asbestos Insulation Board (AIB) identified in a ceiling on a communal stairwell landing.

AIB Soffit Above a Communal Entrance

Asbestos Insulation Board (AIB) identified in the porch soffit above the entrance to a block of flats.

Examples of Residential Blocks We Survey

Our work includes asbestos surveys and management advice for different types of residential blocks and their communal areas. The photographs show examples of buildings we have attended.

Knowing where asbestos is present is particularly important before maintenance, repair or refurbishment work takes place. Accurate survey information and up-to-date records help property managers make informed decisions and reduce the risk of asbestos being disturbed.

Any Questions ?

If your asbestos management is a problem, you want it manged more smoothly or you haven’t had an asbestos survey carried out then get in touch and we can answer any questions.