HSG264 R&D survey
The Refurbishment and Demolition survey under HSG264[HSE HSG264]is intrusive: floors lifted, ceilings opened, services traced. Distinct from a Management survey (non-destructive, for occupied buildings) which is not sufficient for demolition. Typical fee £350-£900 depending on size and site complexity; surveyor must be UKAS-accredited.
Common pre-2000 finds
Cement-bonded corrugated roof sheets (garage, outbuilding) at £20-£40/m² non-licensed removal. Vinyl floor tiles and their bitumen adhesive, low risk. Artex ceilings (white asbestos in some batches) at £8-£15/m². Asbestos insulating board (AIB) around boilers and risers at £40-£90/m² licensed work. Sprayed coating and pipe lagging are the high-risk finds: £60-£120/m² licensed work plus enclosure costs.
Licensed vs non-licensed
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012[CAR 2012]sets the boundary. Licensed work (AIB, sprayed coating, lagging) requires an HSE-licensed contractor and 14 days' notification. Non-licensed work (cement, floor tiles, low-risk Artex) can be done by a trained operative under the NNLW (notifiable non-licensed work) regime.
Mid-demolition discovery
If asbestos is found mid-demolition the works stop, an emergency-survey is commissioned, the discovered material is contained and removed under HSE notification, then works resume. Cost impact £2k to £15k typical; programme impact 2-6 weeks. This is the surprise the calculator's £850-£3,500 asbestos line is buying insurance against.