Independent asbestos surveyor and sampler

Landlords, letting agents, small builders and contractors, property managers, and homeowners planning refurbishment or demolition.

A fixed fee per survey based on property size and type, plus a fee per sample sent to the lab. Repeat work comes from landlords, agents and contractors who need regular checks.

• Careful, methodical inspection
• Clear report writing
• Following health and safety procedures exactly
• Explaining findings calmly to worried clients

• Many clients, insurers and larger contractors expect surveyors to work under UKAS accreditation; check what your target clients require, as accreditation can be costly and slow to get
• Lab analysis should be done by a lab that holds the right accreditation; check before you use one
• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance are essential, as a missed finding could be serious
• Asbestos is dangerous: follow HSE guidance, use the right protective equipment and never take shortcuts
• Check the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 and the rules for your part of the UK
• Waste handling and removal are separate regulated work and may need a licensed contractor; do not offer them unless you are properly authorised

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on equipment, training, insurance and what your target clients expect. These are estimates, so check what accreditation or other requirements your clients ask for.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on how many surveys you win, your fees and the area you cover. These are estimates only, and results will vary as you build your client base.

Check whether clients expect UKAS accreditation, that your lab holds the right accreditation, and the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Follow HSE guidance, hold professional indemnity and public liability insurance, and note that waste handling and removal are separate regulated work.