Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry throughout the 20th century. It was popular due to its insulating properties, and was used in a variety of materials including insulation, floor tiles, roofing, and electrical wiring. However, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos could cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos is now banned in many countries, including the UK, but it is still present in many older buildings. It is important to identify and remove any asbestos materials in your property to protect your health and comply with the law.