DIY vs. Professional
Doing an asbestos survey yourself - when does it work?
Taking individual samples yourself is completely possible and sufficient in most cases. By knowing when DIY is enough and when a professional is needed, you can make the right decision.
Comparison
Yourself or a professional?
Doing it yourself - suitable when:
- You suspect one or a few materials
- The renovation is small-scale
- The materials are in good condition
- You just need to know for your own decision
- The budget is limited
A professional is needed when:
- The law requires an official asbestos survey
- Extensive demolition work is coming up
- The materials are friable or dusty
- Official documentation is required
- You suspect asbestos over a wide area
Safety
Safety tips for self-sampling
Protect your airways
A respirator is not mandatory, but we recommend an FFP3-class one. An ordinary surgical mask gives no protection against asbestos fibres.
Avoid creating dust
Do not grind, drill or hammer the material - carefully cut or remove it.
Take one sample at a time
Put each sample into its own minigrip bag as soon as you have removed it. Never mix samples from different locations.
More detailed instructions: sampling instructions | shipping instructions | asbestos analysis
Frequently asked questions
Questions about doing it yourself
Take the sample yourself and send it to the laboratory
An inexpensive and reliable way to find out if the material contains asbestos. €39.90 + VAT per sample, results on the day of arrival.