Where premises are more complex or where maintenance or refurbishment is planned then a full survey is more appropriate - including the testing of materials. The legislation does not require you to remove all asbestos. The material is only a risk to health when it releases its fibres, so where the material is in a good condition and in a location where it will not be disturbed it should be left in place and effectively managed. The duty of care requires that you make available information on the location and condition of the asbestos to anyone likely to work on it or disturb it.

Any employees involved in building maintenance work or any contractors working on the premises should be informed by you if the building contains or may contain asbestos. They should also be told where it is and that they are at potential risk to their health if they disturb it. Those installing pipes, cables, computer equipment and telephones could also disturb asbestos during their work - particularly in inaccessible areas that may not have been surveyed for asbestos previously. The risk extends to the emergency services, particularly the Fire Brigade, and it is suggested that Residential Management Companies’ Directors contact their local brigade for the sharing of information.

The duty to manage is vested in all those who have responsibility for the maintenance and repair of premises i.e. invariably the directors of a Residential Management Company.