Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry due to its fire-resistant properties, durability, and high electrical resistance. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos can lead to serious health conditions, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

If your building was built before the year 2000, there is a possibility that it contains asbestos, either in the form of lagging or insulation materials, ceiling tiles, or textured coatings such as Artex. Therefore, if you have concerns about asbestos in your property, it's essential to have a professional asbestos survey carried out to determine if there are any asbestos-containing materials present.