Type I This is a visual inspection where any suspect materials are presumed to contain asbestos, and assessed and recorded accordingly. Although the impression is given that this type of survey is simply a brief visual inspection this, according to the requirements of MDHS100 is not so. The depth of survey is equivalent to a Type II without samples being taken.

Type II This is the most common type of survey with suspect materials being sampled and analysed to identify any asbestos content. The sampling strategy is related to the nature of the building, with sufficient representative samples being taken in accordance with guidance contained in MDHS100. The survey is limited to accessible surfaces and areas and involves minimal disturbance of the building.

Type III This survey is required before any proposed refurbishment or demolition work involving alteration or removal of structural elements, partitioning and ceilings etc, or work in normally inaccessible voids and risers etc. The survey is intrusive and will generally be to some degree destructive. This survey will minimise the risk of any previously hidden asbestos containing materials being disturbed during the works.


All surveys are carried out to MDHS 100. In some instances where work is to be carried out in a particular area the intrusive element of the Type III survey can be confined to those areas with undisturbed areas being the subject of a Type II survey.