Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction materials thanks to its excellent insulation properties. However, it was later found to be a carcinogen and banned in the UK in 1999. Despite the ban, many older homes and buildings still contain asbestos, and exposure to the mineral can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

There are six different types of asbestos, but the three most commonly used in construction materials are chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. Asbestos can be found in a variety of materials, including:

• Ceiling and floor tiles
• Roofing and siding shingles
• Insulation
• Pipes and ducts
• Textured paints and coatings