Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used extensively in building materials during the 20th century. It was prized for its heat-resistant qualities, and was commonly used in insulation, roofing, flooring and other construction materials. However, it was later discovered that asbestos is a highly toxic substance that can cause a range of serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

While asbestos is no longer used in the UK, many older buildings still contain asbestos, and it is important to have an asbestos survey carried out if you suspect that asbestos is present.