The remediation firm says everything is clean. The sheeting is up, the negative pressure is running, the workers are wearing masks. But who is checking? The contractor checks themselves — while simultaneously having a financial interest in finishing quickly. This is not a criticism — it is a structural problem.
When asbestos, PAH, or PCB are being removed during a renovation, someone who is independent needs to be watching. That is us.
What Independent Monitoring Means
Our role in a renovation is clearly separated from the executing firm:
Before the renovation: We check the remediation plan for completeness and regulatory compliance. Are all pollutants captured? Are the protective measures correct? Is disposal properly planned?
During the renovation: We monitor the work with our own sensors — real-time air monitoring for particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), fibre concentration outside the containment area, VOC, temperature, humidity. We check the containment, the negative pressure, the personal protective equipment, the waste disposal. Problems are identified immediately — not days later when the laboratory results arrive.
After the renovation: We carry out an independent clearance measurement. This is the decisive point: the clearance measurement must not come from the firm that carried out the remediation. Our report documents that no contamination remains — or that it does.
When You Need an Independent Observer
- Asbestos remediation: Always. Fibre release during improperly conducted work is not visible and not reversible. (→ Recognizing Asbestos)
- PAH floor remediation: For larger areas. PAH dust spreads throughout the entire apartment. (→ PAH in Old Buildings)
- PCB joint remediation: Especially in occupied buildings. (→ PCB in Sealants)
- Renovation in occupied buildings: When tenants or owners remain in the building during the work.
- When large sums are at stake: For major renovation projects, independent documentation is also legal protection.
What It Achieves
Quality assurance: A re-remediation costs many times more than the initial measure. Independent monitoring prevents errors from only being noticed after completion.
Health protection: Real-time monitoring detects contamination immediately — not days later when the laboratory results arrive.
Legal documentation: In disputes between client and contractor, an independent report is invaluable.
Peace of mind: You know that someone is watching who has no financial interest in a quick completion.
In Austria, independent renovation monitoring is not legally required (the BauV regulates occupational health and safety obligations), but it is strongly recommended for asbestos and other hazardous substances.
When You Should Get in Touch
You are planning a pollutant remediation? You have received a remediation quote and want to know whether it is complete? You want to ensure that the work is carried out cleanly?
15-minute initial consultation, free of charge.