Asbestos is a natural fibrous rock that is mined from the ground in different countries all around the world. The three most common types are Crocidolite (blue), Amosite (brown), and Chrysotile (white). Due to its superior qualities, wide availability, and affordability, it was heavily used in the construction of homes and buildings, right up until it was banned in the UK in 1999.

Where can asbestos be found?

Asbestos was commonly used because of its strength, insulation and fire-retardant properties. Some common items that can contain asbestos in both domestic and commercial properties are; Garage or shed roofs and walls, textured coatings (Artex), rainwater goods such as guttering or pipes, soffits and fascia’s, soil pipes, roof tiles, floor tiles, bitumen adhesive. damp proof membranes, toilet cisterns, rope seals, gaskets, pipe insulation, ceiling tiles, doors, and insulation panels.

Is asbestos dangerous?

If asbestos-containing material is in its original situ, doing the job that it was intended for, and remains in good condition, then often the best course of action is to leave it in situ and manage and maintain its condition. The most significant danger of asbestos fibres is by inhalation, which can lead to health problems such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. This is why it is critically important that if asbestos is to be removed, it is removed only by trained professionals.

Can I remove asbestos myself?

We highly recommend that you do not attempt any asbestos removal yourself. Incorrect handling of the material can lead to the release of fibres, which can cause severe health problems when inhaled.

What does asbestos smell like?

Contrary to some online myths, asbestos does not have a smell. It is generally odourless and tasteless, which makes it all the harder to detect. If asbestos did have a smell, we would highly discourage sniffing it due to the health risks posed by inhalation.

What should I do if I have asbestos in my home?

If your home was built before the year 2000 then it’s very possible that it could contain asbestos materials. It is important to remember that if asbestos materials are in good condition, in situ and doing the job they were designed to do, then they should pose very little immediate risk. Knowing the location of any asbestos materials in your home will provide you with the information you need to ensure you do not disturb them or if you are planning some intrusive DIY refurbishment work then it could be prudent to instruct an appropriate asbestos survey during the planning stages. You must remember too that if any tradesperson is carrying out work in your home then it becomes their place of work meaning that asbestos risks must be considered. An asbestos survey is the most effective way to identify any asbestos materials which may be present.

What is the purpose of an asbestos survey?

The purpose of an asbestos survey is to provide accurate information on the location, amount, and condition of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) which enable you to manage the asbestos in your premises. A survey will assess the level of damage or deterioration in the ACM’s and whether remedial action is required or help identify all the ACMs to be removed before a refurbishment or demolition project. The survey information can also be used to prepare a record of the location of any asbestos, commonly called an asbestos register, and an asbestos plan for the building(s). The register should be used to inform the risk assessment on things like who could disturb asbestos on your premises and to establish the management plan to prevent such a disturbance.

How much does an asbestos survey cost?

The cost of an asbestos survey varies from site to site. Variable factors such as the number and size of buildings, number of floors, rooms, and areas, number of estimated samples, and any access requirements are some of the key elements taken into account when producing a quote for an asbestos survey. Give our team a call on 01623 473214 or complete the contact us form HERE to get your free, no-obligation quote.

How long does an asbestos survey last?

A properly planned and executed management survey if maintained in the form of an asbestos register could last indefinitely. However, known ACMs within the asbestos register should be reinspected at regular intervals and at least annually to update the risk assessment and highlight any remedial actions required.

Do you provide asbestos removal?

Yes, we offer a full range of asbestos services including surveying, testing, and removal. See our range of asbestos services here.

Why Asbestos Management Plans Are Being Updated Across the UK in 2025

As we move through 2025, thousands of UK businesses are updating their asbestos management plan to keep pace with changes in compliance expectations, insurance requirements, and heightened HSE enforcement activity. Although asbestos law itself has not changed, the way dutyholders are being assessed has tightened. This has created an increased focus on plan quality, accuracy, and real-world risk control, particularly for older commercial buildings, schools, healthcare sites, and industrial premises.

ACS team member carrying out an asbestos management plan

A strong asbestos management plan remains the foundation of safe asbestos control. It sets out a clear strategy for identifying, monitoring, and managing asbestos containing materials and is a legal requirement for any non-domestic property built before the year 2000. That responsibility has become more visible during 2025 as compliance officers, insurers, and HSE inspectors push for clearer, more proactive documentation rather than generic plans that fail to reflect the building as it exists today.

The growing pressure to keep asbestos responsibilities up to date

Dutyholders across the UK are now dealing with rising expectations around asbestos responsibilities. Many organisations are discovering that their existing plans are outdated or incomplete, which puts them at risk during audits or insurance reviews. The HSE has repeatedly highlighted poor or inaccurate plans during recent inspections, stressing that a management plan is not simply a document to satisfy the law but must guide real, ongoing risk reduction.

A well maintained asbestos management plan 2025 version must show how the organisation actively manages asbestos containing materials. This includes site specific risk assessments, current survey data, clear action plans, detailed monitoring schedules, and evidence that staff and contractors understand the procedures. Plans written several years ago are often found to be missing this level of detail, which is partly why so many companies have chosen 2025 to refresh them.

Insurance and property risk assessments are driving updates

One of the biggest reasons for increased updates this year is pressure from insurance providers. Property insurance renewals now commonly ask for confirmation that asbestos information is accurate and that the asbestos management plan reflects the building’s current condition and use. Where evidence is lacking, insurers may delay policy approval or request further surveys and documentation. This shift has encouraged many commercial landlords and property managers to update asbestos plan documents more proactively, particularly in portfolios with ageing stock.

Refurbishment projects are highlighting gaps

With refurbishment and repurposing projects increasing across the UK, dutyholders are discovering that their old asbestos documentation no longer matches the actual layout or usage of the building. Whenever refurb work is planned, the presence and condition of asbestos must be reviewed, and this often exposes gaps in the existing plan. Updating the plan early ensures fewer delays, safer project handling, and better coordination with contractors who rely on accurate information.

Why 2025 is the right time to review your asbestos management plan

Asbestos compliance updates in 2025 emphasise accuracy, accountability, and active management. Organisations with a strong plan are better protected during audits, better prepared for refurbishment work, and far more likely to meet insurance requirements. Most importantly, an up to date asbestos management plan reduces risk for staff, contractors, and building users.

For detailed guidance on asbestos responsibilities or assistance with ensuring your asbestos management plan is fully compliant, you can contact us today.

Asbestos Management Plan FAQs

How often should an asbestos management plan be updated?

An asbestos management plan should be reviewed at least once a year, or sooner if the building layout changes, asbestos containing materials are disturbed, or new survey information becomes available. Regular reviews are essential to meet asbestos responsibilities and keep risk assessments accurate.

What must be included in an asbestos management plan in 2025?

A compliant asbestos management plan 2025 document must include survey data, location and condition of asbestos, a risk assessment, actions required, a monitoring schedule, and clear procedures for contractors and staff. It must reflect the building as it exists today rather than relying on old information.

Who is responsible for keeping an asbestos management plan up to date?

The dutyholder asbestos role typically falls to the property owner, landlord, or person in control of the building. They are legally responsible for ensuring the plan is accurate, regularly updated, and shared with anyone who may disturb asbestos containing materials.