Planning an asbestos survey before renovating in Finland

An asbestos survey identifies asbestos-containing materials before renovation. For a project in Finland, scope the survey around the planned demolition so contractors have the information needed to plan safe working methods and price the work.

Arrange the survey before committing to demolition

You cannot reliably identify asbestos by appearance. The Päijät-Häme environmental health authority’s guidance (opens in a new tab) discusses surveying older structures before demolition and using an authorized asbestos removal company. This is Finnish guidance; requirements in other countries must be checked locally.

Do not take samples or open up suspected materials yourself. Ask a qualified survey professional to determine what needs examination and sampling. Allow time for the results before finalizing the renovation contract.

Match the survey to the planned work

Provide the building’s age, information about earlier renovations, and any existing reports. Identify the surfaces and structures that will be demolished or opened, including any parts of the scope that are still uncertain.

An older report may cover only one room or one layer of material. Ask the professional to check whether it covers the proposed work. If the project expands, reassess the survey before disturbing a new area.

Use the report in the quote request

Request a written report that clearly states the limits of the survey, and give the same information to every demolition bidder. Ask the quote to account for the necessary containment, removal, waste handling, and completion records.

A finding can change working methods, the schedule, and whether you can stay in the home. Clarify these effects in advance. Agree that affected work will stop for investigation if previously unexamined materials are uncovered. Compare the cost of demolition only once the quotes cover the same scope.