Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials due to its durability, heat resistance, and insulation properties. Asbestos is made up of microscopic fibers that can become airborne if the material containing it is disturbed or damaged. When inhaled, these fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but it is still present in many older buildings. If you are planning to refurbish or demolish a property that was built before 2000, it is important to have an asbestos survey conducted to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that may be present.