DIY or professional
Testing for asbestos yourself – when does it work?
Taking individual samples yourself works well in most cases and is often all you need. Knowing when doing it yourself is enough and when you need a professional helps you make the right decision.
Comparison
Yourself or a professional?
Do it yourself if:
- you suspect one or a few materials
- the renovation is small
- the materials are intact and in good condition
- you need a basis for your own decision
- your budget is limited
You need a professional if:
- a full asbestos survey is required
- larger demolition work is planned
- the materials are crumbling or dusty
- you need documents for the authorities
- you suspect there is a lot of asbestos in the building
Safety
Safety tips for taking your own sample
Protect your airways
We recommend an FFP3 mask. An ordinary face mask does not protect against asbestos fibres.
Avoid dust
Don't sand, drill or knock the material – carefully cut or prise off a piece.
One sample at a time
Put each sample in its own resealable bag straight after removing it. Don't mix samples from different places.
More guides: Taking a sample | Sending the sample | Asbestos analysis
FAQ
Questions about testing yourself
Take the sample yourself and send it to the laboratory
An affordable and reliable way to find out whether a material contains asbestos. €49.99 incl. VAT per sample, result the day the sample arrives.