Testing
Asbestos testing in Plymouth
Not sure if a ceiling, floor tile, panel or garage roof contains asbestos? Getting a sample analysed is the way to find out. Send one enquiry and a licensed local contractor will arrange it.
Why you can't tell by looking
HSE says the only way to confirm whether a suspect material contains asbestos fibres is to take a sample and have it analysed. It also notes that it's difficult to tell some asbestos boards from non-asbestos versions by eye.
HSE says sampling should be done by a suitably trained person, and analysis by accredited, competent analysts. UKAS accredits the laboratories.
Sources: HSE: arrange an asbestos survey; HSE: locations of asbestos.
Testing or a survey?
| Your situation | Usually the right first step |
|---|---|
| One material you're worried about, e.g. a textured ceiling or an old floor tile | Testing a sample |
| Renovating several rooms, or opening up walls, floors or ceilings | A refurbishment survey of the area being worked on |
| You're responsible for a non-domestic building or the common parts of flats | A management survey |
| Knocking a building down | A demolition survey |
Not sure? Pick "Not sure yet" on the form and the contractor will advise.
Things people often want tested
- Artex and other textured ceiling and wall coatings
- Old vinyl floor tiles and the black adhesive under them
- Garage and shed roof sheets
- Panels and boxing-in around boilers, pipes and fireplaces
- Soffit boards
- Old cold water tanks and flue pipes
Home test kits are on sale, but taking a sample means disturbing the material. HSE says sampling should be done by a suitably trained person.
Want something tested?
Tell us what you need in about two minutes. We pass your enquiry to one HSE-licensed local contractor, who will contact you to discuss it. No obligation, and we never sell your details to lists.