Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials until the late 1990s. Asbestos was used in products such as insulation, fireproofing, and roofing materials because of its durability and heat-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos can cause cancer and other serious health problems if the fibers are inhaled. Therefore, it's crucial to have an asbestos survey to identify if any hidden asbestos-containing materials are present in a building, in order to remove them safely and avoid exposure risks.