Asbestos before works in Belgium: when do you need a survey?

Asbestos was widely used in construction in Belgium before it was banned. In an older building it can be hidden in sheets, adhesives, floor coverings, pipes or insulation. Before demolition or renovation you need to know whether it is there: that is the purpose of an asbestos survey carried out by a qualified expert.

Why it matters

Asbestos fibres released during demolition are hazardous to health. Removal must be carried out by a licensed company under strict procedures. A serious demolition contractor will not touch suspect materials until there are answers.

When is a survey required?

Obligations depend on the Region and the type of work. In Brussels, Brussels Environment sets out asbestos obligations for building sites, in particular above a certain floor area. In Flanders, an asbestos certificate (asbestattest) is required in certain situations, such as the sale of older buildings. Always check the current rules with your Region’s competent authority.

Materials to watch

• Corrugated sheets and slates in fibre cement
• Old vinyl floor coverings and their adhesives
• Lagging on pipes and boilers
• Old suspended ceilings and boards
• Joints, sealants and certain plasters

How to proceed

1. Have an expert carry out a survey if the building is old or in any doubt.
2. If asbestos is present, have it removed by a licensed company.
3. The other elements can then be demolished normally.

For your works after the survey: building strip-out.

A project in Brussels or elsewhere in Belgium? The site visit and quote are free: call 02 315 50 33 or describe your project in one minute.