Asbestos testing questions, answered

A trained person takes a small, sealed sample of the material and a laboratory analyses it under a microscope. That is the only reliable way to know.

It is not recommended. Cutting or scraping a sample can release fibres. Leave the material alone and have a trained person take it.

No. Many asbestos products look identical to modern materials. Only a laboratory test can confirm it.

Often a few working days once the laboratory has the sample, depending on the laboratory and the number of samples.

That the sampled material did not contain asbestos. It says nothing about other materials in the building.

Asbestos was found in the sample. Do not disturb the material, and ask about leaving it, sealing it or removing it.

Some pre-2000 textured coatings were, many were not. A sample is the only way to know for a specific ceiling.

Some were, and so was some of the black adhesive under them. Test before you lift them.

Large grey corrugated sheets on pre-2000 garages often are, but only a sample confirms it.

Flat grey boards on pre-2000 houses can be. Test before drilling or cutting them.

Older lagging can be. Do not touch it. Send a photo and ask for advice.

A survey of a building in normal use that locates and records asbestos so it can be managed.

A more intrusive survey done before building work or demolition, covering the areas that will be disturbed.

Not for a home, but it is sensible for a pre-2000 property you plan to renovate.

A legal duty on owners and managers of non-domestic buildings to find out whether asbestos is present and to manage the risk.

Regularly, and whenever conditions change or work affects a material. Many managers arrange a periodic re-inspection.

It depends on the number of samples, access and turnaround. The contractor's written quote is what counts.

Sending your details through this site is free and carries no obligation.

No. This is an introduction service paid by the contractor. Nothing is added to your price.

Mostly because of what is included: number of samples, laboratory fees, report and any return visit.

Stop, keep others away, do not sweep or vacuum, and ask for advice. See our guide on what to do if you disturb asbestos.

Intact, undisturbed material is generally low risk. The danger is fibre released when it is damaged or worked on.

If you are worried, yes. Tell them what happened and when.

Stoke-on-Trent and its six towns, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Kidsgrove, and Moorlands and Cheshire border places such as Biddulph, Mow Cop, Alsager, Congleton, Leek, Cheadle and Stone.

Yes. We introduce contractors who test and survey domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural and public buildings.

Yes. Surveys can be timed for holidays and quiet periods.

We are an introduction service. The contractor is independent, provides the quote and does the work.