An asbestos inventory is more than just a certificate. We explain the difference and tell you what to do with it.
When you start working on an old building, you quickly hear two terms: asbestos inventory and asbestos certificate. They are often confused with each other, but they are two different documents with their own purpose and their own author. For anyone selling a home or renovating a commercial property, it is important to know the difference.
The asbestos certificate is probably familiar to you. Since 23 November 2022, it has been mandatory when selling a home or building built before 2001. The certificate is drawn up by a certified asbestos expert (ADI) and issued by OVAM. It provides an overview of all asbestos applications found during a visual inspection.
A certificate is aimed at the private housing market. The goal is that every owner of a pre-2001 building has such a certificate by 2032. For co-ownerships, an earlier deadline applies: the common parts must be mapped by 31 December 2026 at the latest.
An asbestos inventory goes further. This document is not only intended for sale, but also for management and renovation. Since 1995, every employer has been obliged to have a non-destructive asbestos inventory drawn up for their buildings. That inventory must map all asbestos-containing materials, including materials that are not directly visible but whose existence is known.
In addition, there is the destructive asbestos inventory. This is mandatory before the demolition of a building. Destructive actions are carried out to also find asbestos that is hidden, for example behind a wall or under a floor. This inventory is especially important for demolition and dismantling works, because asbestos fibres can be released during demolition.
An asbestos inventory is drawn up by a certified asbestos expert. This is not the same as a licensed asbestos removal contractor. Credim is licensed for the removal of asbestos, but does not itself draw up inventories or certificates. For the inventory, you must therefore contact an asbestos expert or OVAM.
What we do do is carry out the remediation that follows from the inventory. Once the inventory is ready and you know where the asbestos is, we can remove it professionally and in accordance with the regulations. We work closely with demolition companies and contractors to ensure that the demolition notification and demolition follow-up plan runs smoothly.
An asbestos inventory is not just an administrative obligation. It is also a practical document that tells you exactly where you are dealing with asbestos. This way you know whether you are dealing with bonded asbestos, such as corrugated sheets or window sills, or the more dangerous friable asbestos, such as pipe insulation.
During a renovation or demolition, it is crucial to know in advance what you will encounter. Suppose you want to renovate an old cellar from the 1970s and you discover on site that the central heating pipes are insulated with asbestos-containing material. That is white, crumbly material often wrapped in jute cloth. Without an inventory, you face surprises that bring the works to a standstill. With an inventory, you can plan the asbestos removal for professionals in advance.
Once the inventory has been drawn up, we take over. We look at what type of asbestos is present and in what condition it is. Then we choose the right technique: a simple operation for bonded material with low risk, a glove bag for pipe insulation in the open air, or an airtight zone with negative pressure for indoor pipe insulation and for damaged or friable asbestos.
We also ensure correct disposal. Asbestos is packed airtight in foil of at least 100 microns and transported to a licensed processor. For friable asbestos, you may not take it to the recycling centre yourself, but we arrange that for you.
Are you working on a larger project, such as insulating your roof or facade? Then combine asbestos removal with the insulation works. Through the Mijn VerbouwPremie (My Renovation Grant), you can receive a supplement for this. The conditions change regularly, so check the current amounts on mijnverbouwpremie.be.
An asbestos inventory is therefore not an unnecessary luxury, but a necessary step to make your building safe. And once the inventory is clear, we are ready to remove the asbestos in a safe and professional manner.
A certified expert visits, assesses the situation and gives you a clear, no-obligation proposal.
* Premium amounts, subsidy conditions and legal deadlines may change. The information on this page is indicative; always check the current rules with OVAM, your municipality or via Mijn VerbouwPremie. Last reviewed: September 2026.
