An asbestos certificate is the result of an asbestos survey of a building. Based on this survey, OVAM issues a unique asbestos certificate for each building. This certificate contains information about asbestos in the building and assesses whether it is asbestos-safe. It describes for normal use of the building:
- which materials or building components contain asbestos
- the condition of the asbestos
- and provides advice on how it can be safely managed or removed.
When is an asbestos certificate mandatory?
An asbestos certificate is mandatory in the case of a transfer between living persons, to a new owner, of an accessible structure that was built before 2001.
For an accessible structure (built before 2001) that is smaller than 20 m², the asbestos certificate is not mandatory, except if:
- the sum of the accessible structures to be transferred is 20 m² or larger
- the accessible structure is part of a larger architectural whole.
The asbestos certificate must be present at the time of the transfer agreement. This is usually the compromise, but it can also take place at another time.
The notary can always determine on a case-by-case basis whether an asbestos certificate is necessary and at what point it must be available.
In the future
Starting in 2032, for every accessible structure built before 2001 of which you are the owner, an asbestos certificate will be mandatory, even if you have no plans for a transfer.
What about renting?
Currently, renting in itself is not a reason to have an asbestos certificate drawn up. But if an asbestos certificate is available, you are obligated to provide a copy to the tenant(s).
Procedure
- Appoint a certified asbestos expert
To obtain an asbestos certificate for your property, appoint a certified asbestos expert for the survey. On the OVAM website, you can find a list of companies authorized to conduct an asbestos survey for the asbestos certificate (opens in a new window). You can search by name or by municipality and postal code. This list is updated at least weekly.
As the owner, you can also grant power of attorney to have an asbestos certificate drawn up, for example to a notary, real estate agent, or building manager.
- The asbestos expert surveys your building