Construction and demolition projects carry a legal obligation to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials before any intrusive works begin. Under CAR 2012, a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey is a mandatory prerequisite for any work that disturbs the fabric of a pre-2000 building — and the principal contractor bears responsibility for ensuring it is in place before groundworks or demolition commence.
The Refurbishment and Demolition Survey: What the Law Requires
A Refurbishment and Demolition (R&D) Survey is more intrusive than a management survey — it is specifically designed to identify all ACMs that could be encountered during planned works. It involves sampling of materials that would not normally be accessed, producing a report identifying all ACMs within the works scope, their condition, extent and risk rating, along with sampling records and UKAS-accredited laboratory analysis. R&D surveys are carried out by our trusted surveying partners qualified to RSPH/BOHS P402 standard. The survey must be completed and available to all contractors before work begins — it is not sufficient to commission it partway through demolition.
Notifiable Licensable Works and F10 Notification
Where licensed removal is required, the removing contractor must submit an F10 notification to the HSE at least 14 days before licensed work commences. For large demolition projects involving multiple ACM types, F10 notifications may be submitted on a phased basis as individual work packages are programmed.
Principal Contractor Duties Under CDM 2015 and CAR 2012
- Ensure a suitable R&D survey is completed before works begin
- Include asbestos management information in the pre-construction information pack
- Ensure all asbestos removal is completed before the relevant building fabric is disturbed
- Coordinate licensed removal programmes with the overall demolition schedule
- Ensure all consignment notes and clearance certificates are documented in the health and safety file
Common ACMs in Pre-Demolition Buildings
AIB ceiling tiles and partition boards (licensed removal required); pipe lagging and thermal insulation (licensed); sprayed asbestos coatings on structural steel (specialist licensed removal); asbestos cement roofing and cladding (NNLW — must be removed before mechanical demolition); and asbestos floor tiles and bitumen adhesive (NNLW — removal before breaking out sub-floor). See our construction asbestos services page and our commercial removal page. For surveys see our surveys page.