For those who aren't familiar, asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials throughout the 20th century. It was used for its insulation and fire-retardant properties, and was often found in products such as pipe insulation, floor tiles, and roofing shingles.

While asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, many older buildings still contain asbestos materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. As a result, it's important to identify and manage any asbestos materials that may be present in your home or commercial building.