If you plan to renovate a building that was built before 1994, an asbestos survey is a legal obligation. The survey must be done before any material is removed or worked on. This applies to private households as well as housing associations and companies.
Why is asbestos survey mandatory?
Asbestos was widely used in building materials in Finland from the 1920s to the early 1990s. It can be found in screeds, adhesives, carpets, tiles, pipe insulation, boards and dozens of other materials. Asbestos fibers are released into the air when these materials are dismantled, drilled or ground - and when inhaled, they cause serious diseases.
The purpose of the survey is to find out in advance where there is asbestos so that the renovation can be done safely.
What renovations does the survey cover?
In practice all renovations, where old building materials are dismantled or processed:
- Bathroom and kitchen renovations
- Pipe repairs
- Floor repair (vinyl flooring, removal of vinyl tiles)
- Demolition of walls or removal of screed
- Facade renovations
- Roof repairs
- Complete removal work
What happens if survey is not done?
Without an asbestos survey, starting a renovation in an old building is illegal and dangerous. Sanctions may include:
- The occupational health and safety authority suspends the construction site
- Fines for the subscriber
- Removal from the register for the removal company
- Liability for compensation if employees are exposed to asbestos
- The insurance company can refuse compensation
How did I act before the renovation?
- Find out the year of construction - if built before 1994, a survey is required
- Order an asbestos survey - an expert comes to the site and takes samples
- Wait for the results - the laboratory results and the report usually come in 1 business day
- Plan the renovation based on the results - if asbestos is found, the demolition will be done by an authorized removal company
- Start the renovation safely
Asbestos survey is the first and most important stage of renovation in older buildings. It protects you, your family and employees from asbestos exposure.