If you suspect asbestos in your home or commercial building, the next step can be confusing. Should you get an asbestos sample tested — or do you need a full asbestos survey? Both are essential tools, but they serve different purposes.
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what’s involved, how each works, and which is right for your situation.
What Is Asbestos Sampling?
Asbestos sampling is a targeted process where a professional safely collects a small portion of material suspected to contain asbestos. This might be a bit of ceiling texture, a piece of vinyl flooring, or some wall sheeting.
The sample is then sent to a specialist laboratory for testing using polarised light microscopy (PLM) or scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These methods identify the type of asbestos present (e.g., chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite) and whether it’s friable (crumbly) or non-friable (bonded).
How are asbestos samples tested?
Samples are prepared in a lab and examined under a microscope to detect asbestos fibres and their type. Sampling is ideal when:
- You’re planning small renovations and want to check specific areas.
- You’ve discovered a suspicious material and want confirmation.
- A builder or contractor needs clearance to work safely.
What Is an Asbestos Survey?
An asbestos survey is a more thorough inspection that assesses your entire property (or a specific area) to identify all possible asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). It includes:
- A full visual inspection
- Sample collection (where needed)
- A written report with a register of asbestos, its condition, risk level, and management recommendations
What is the name of the intrusive asbestos survey?
That’s called a Refurbishment and Demolition Survey — a more invasive type of survey required before any major work like demolition or alterations.
What Are the Two Types of Asbestos Surveys?
In New Zealand (in line with WorkSafe guidelines), there are two main types of asbestos surveys:
Management Survey
- Used for general risk assessment and compliance (especially for workplaces).
- Identifies asbestos in a building that’s not being disturbed.
- Non-intrusive — minimal disruption to walls or structures.
Refurbishment and Demolition Survey
- Required before any demolition, renovation, or intrusive work.
- Highly intrusive — materials are broken open or removed to check for hidden asbestos.
- Essential for builders, landlords, and developers.
How Long Does an Asbestos Survey Take?
It depends on the size and complexity of the building.
A small home might take just a few hours. A large commercial site could take several days.
You’ll usually receive your report within 2–5 working days, including lab results for any samples taken.
Expert tip
Sampling tells you if a specific material contains asbestos. A survey tells you where all the asbestos is — and how risky it is.
If in doubt, talk to a licensed asbestos assessor who can recommend the right level of inspection.