Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction of buildings and homes from the 1950s to the 1990s. It was valued for its heat-resistant and insulating properties, making it popular for insulation, flooring, roofing, and other building materials. However, the use of asbestos was banned across the European Union in 2005 due to the health risks associated with its fibers.

Asbestos exposure can lead to severe health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases may not manifest for years after the initial exposure, but when they do, they can be life-threatening. That's why it's essential to identify and safely remove any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your property to prevent the release of dangerous fibers into the air.