Do I need a survey, a test or removal?

A test/sample confirms whether one material contains asbestos. A survey systematically identifies asbestos across a property or work area. Removal is the work to take identified asbestos out — and for higher-risk materials it must be done by an HSE-licensed contractor.

Is this an official assessment?

No. This is a quick guide to help you choose a starting point. It is not professional advice or a substitute for a survey by a competent surveyor. AsbestosDirectoryUK is a directory and enquiry-matching platform, not an asbestos contractor.

What happens after I get a suggestion?

You can continue to the quote form with the suggested service pre-selected (you can change it), and we will share your enquiry with relevant UK contractors. You are never obliged to proceed.

Not sure what asbestos service you need?

Answer 4 quick questions and we'll suggest the right starting point. You can change it at any time on the next page.

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What kind of property is this for?

Pick the closest match.

Survey, test or removal — what’s the difference?

Choosing the right asbestos service starts with what you’re trying to do. A test or sample confirms whether one specific material contains asbestos. A survey systematically identifies asbestos-containing materials across a property or a defined work area. Removal is the work to safely take identified asbestos out — and for higher-risk materials it must be carried out by an HSE-licensed contractor.

If your building was constructed or refurbished before 2000, asbestos may be present. For day-to-day occupation a management survey is the usual route; before any intrusive work a refurbishment & demolition survey is required. Our guides explain each in plain English.

Management vs refurbishment/demolition survey Do I legally need an asbestos survey?I think I’ve found asbestos — what to do How much does a survey or removal cost?

Prefer to browse directly? See asbestos surveyors, testing services and removal contractors, or read the full asbestos advice hub.

Frequently asked questions

For a building in normal use you usually need a management survey. Before any work that disturbs the building fabric (refurbishment, alteration or demolition) you need a refurbishment & demolition survey of the affected areas. If you only need to confirm what a single material is, a sample test may be enough. This tool helps point you to the right starting point.