Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was used for its excellent insulation properties, and as a fire retardant.

However, asbestos is now recognized as a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems if fibers are inhaled. Asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases.

Because of the dangers posed by asbestos, the use of asbestos in building materials has been banned in the UK since 1999. However, many older buildings still contain asbestos, and it is essential to have an asbestos survey carried out before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place.