Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials between the 1950s and 1980s. It gained popularity because it has excellent insulation and fire-retardant properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers are highly hazardous when inhaled.

Inhalation of asbestos fibers is the leading cause of lung diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. In line with this, the UK government has put in place legislation to regulate asbestos use and control its removal.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 stipulates that any suspected asbestos-containing materials must be presumed to contain asbestos until proved otherwise or ruled out by a competent person. As such, any building constructed before 2000 is likely to contain asbestos materials.