Asbestos surveyor

What does an asbestos surveyor do?

As an asbestos surveyor, you’ll be responsible for inspecting sites ready for renovation or demolition, and analysing whether asbestos is present. You may be required to recommend that licensed asbestos removal contractors are appointed to dispose of harmful substances, if you find they are present.  

The role of an asbestos surveyor involves the following duties:  

• Safely inspecting for asbestos in ceilings, walls, boilers, and more 
• Understanding the health risks,  and uses and properties of different types of asbestos 
• Understanding building legislation relating to asbestos 
• Planning surveys and data collections 
• Analysing plans and technical drawings 
• Completing risk assessments 
• Collecting samples for lab analysis 
• Compiling survey reports based on findings 
• Recommending appropriate remedial action if asbestos is found within a structure 
• Wearing specialist protective equipment including coveralls and a full face mask for site sampling 
• Safely disposing of contaminated items and samples 
• Working on industrial sites, in shops, and offices, and people’s homes. 

How to become an asbestos surveyor

There are several routes to becoming an asbestos surveyor. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training. 

You should explore these routes to becoming an asbestos surveyor, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions. 

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.  

University 

You could can study for a degree or professional qualification approved by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), in surveying, construction, civil or building engineering. 

Once you have gained these qualifications, you could can complete specialist training to help you become an asbestos surveyor. 

• Equivalent entry requirements explained 
• Find a university course 
• Funding advice 

College/training provider 

You will need to have specialist training to become an asbestos surveyor. A Level 3 Award in Asbestos Surveying would enables you to look for work, or continue training for a Level 4 Certificate in Asbestos Laboratory and Project Management. 

You will usually need some experience in the construction industry or a surveying role. Your training provider will advise you on entry requirements and your eligibility.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained 
• Find a course near you 
• Funding advice 

Apprenticeship 

An apprenticeship with a surveying company is a good way into the industry. Once qualified, you could start your career as a surveying technician or a geospatial survey technician and specialise in asbestos surveying through further study. 

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider. 

• Guide to apprenticeships

Work experience 

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a surveyor or asbestos surveyor. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV. 

• Find out more about work experience

Skills  

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as an asbestos surveyor include:  

• Specialist training in asbestos surveying 
• Logical thinking skills 
• Good team working skills 
• Excellent communication abilities 
• Awareness of health and safety. 

How much could you earn as an asbestos surveyor?

The expected salary for an asbestos surveyor varies as you become more experienced. 

• Newly trained asbestos surveyors can earn from £27,000 
• Trained asbestos surveyors with experience can earn up to £45,000* 

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed and industry recognised training route.