Inspection

Question 1

In what order does the RICS recommend you inspect a property?

Answer 1

1. Surrounding area
2. External
3. Internal (roof down)

Question 2

What should you be looking for in the surrounding area wen conducting an inspection?

Answer 2

1. General surrounding context
2. Local facilities
3. Transport
4. Amenities
5. Flood risk
6. Agents boards

Question 3

Which Regulations relate to dealing with Asbestos whilst inspecting?

Answer 3

Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012

RICS Asbestos and its implications for surveyors and their clients 2011

Question 4

What are the requirements for employers in relation to asbestos?

Answer 4

Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (Regulation 10) requires that ‘every employer shall ensure that adequate information, instruction and training is given to those of his employees who are or who are liable to be exposed to asbestos, or who supervise such employees.

Question 5

What are some possible financial implications of asbestos being located in a building?

Answer 5

• emergency or unplanned stoppage of production/services
• evacuation of a building/ temporary accommodation a
• loss of immediate commercial income
• adverse publicity
• loss of rent

Question 6

What statutory responsibilities do you have if you note the presence of asbestos during an inspection?

Answer 6

• H&S at Work Act 1974
  
  • Requires all those at work to take reasonable care to ensure their H&S.
  • So need to report the presence irrespective of the nature of the inspection
  • Inform the tenant and senior management - and advise appointing a specialist

Question 7

What are your responsibilities when carrying out an LRA inspection, in relation to asbestos?

Answer 7

NOTE - for most valuations - Red Book requires that the terms of engagement set-out the extent of investigations.

• Non-intrusive survey - not inspecting loft / attic etc
• If you note the presence of asbestos (that is risk to health) must inform tenant, agent, landlord
• Should be given advice on the emergency measures required.
• This should be confirmed in the report, together with details of the person informed, and a note of the date and time where appropriate.

Question 8

How would you identify the presence of asbestos?

Answer 8

• Age
  
  • Prior to 1985 - all types still legal
  • Prior to 1999 - some types still legal
• Hugely wide ranging uses so difficult to identify all (e.g. used to strengthen cement)
• Some types (e.g. roof panels) will show the letters AC or ACM
• If concerned - advise that a specialist is instructed

Question 9

What are the three main types of asbestos (by colour)

Answer 9

• White
• Brown
• Blue