Asbestos is a hazardous mineral that was widely used in construction before its dangers were known, mainly in the 20th century. It was used due to its durability and heat resistance, but it's now known to cause severe health complications such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

While newer properties may not contain asbestos, older buildings will likely have some form of it present. The older the building, the more likely asbestos is present. It can be present in a range of materials, such as insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, and roofing materials.