Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was used widely in construction materials in the past. It was used extensively in the UK before it was banned in the late 1990s due to its hazardous nature. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release tiny fibres that can be inhaled. These fibres can cause serious harm to the lungs and other organs over time, leading to a range of diseases including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Asbestos-containing materials can be found in many residential and commercial buildings built before 2000. These materials can include floor tiles, insulation, roofing, and pipes. It's important to have a professional asbestos survey conducted on your property to determine the location and amount of asbestos-containing materials.