Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was valued for its insulating and fire-resistant properties, and can be found in a range of building materials including ceiling tiles, floor tiles, insulation, and pipe lagging. However, exposure to asbestos can have serious health implications, including the development of lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

If you're planning any refurbishment, demolition, or other type of property work, it's important that you have an asbestos survey carried out to identify any asbestos-containing materials present on your property. This is not only a legal requirement, but also essential for the safety of those who will be working on your property.