Prior to the demolition of the existing structure on the site, especially with existing buildings that are over 50 years old, a hazardous material survey completed by qualify Engineers will be required and should be performed. Many Cities will require such documents prior to the demolition work and for the approval of the demolition permit. Any type of demolition work should not be started before completing survey report.
Asbestos will be the main concerns of the survey and samples collected will be tested.
The hazardous materials included in the survey will normally include the following:
1. asbestos containing building materials (ACMS)
2. lead based paints (LBPs)
3. lead products
4. cryalline silica
5. mercury
6. polychloinated biphenyls (PCBs)
7. halocarbons
8. mold
Areas will be investigated will be floors, ceilings, walls, structures, paint, glazing, mortars, flashings, batteries, lead sheet, concrete, cement, tile, brick, masonry, mortar, thermostats, light tubes, pressure gauges, light ballast, wet transformers, air conditioning units, chillers, suppression systems, mold growths etc. Some will be tested and some will just be a visual inspection only.
The cost for this survey can vary depending on the type and size of the development.