Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials throughout the UK until the early 2000s. It's highly resistant to heat and fire, making it an ideal material for insulation, roofing, and other applications. However, when asbestos is disturbed or damaged, it can release tiny fibers into the air that can be inhaled or swallowed. Over time, exposure to asbestos can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

If your property was built before the year 2000, it may contain asbestos in some form. Even if you haven't noticed any damage or decay in your building materials, it's important to have them tested for asbestos to ensure that you and anyone else who may come into contact with them are safe from harm. Asbestos testing involves taking samples of materials and sending them to a laboratory for analysis. If asbestos is present, you'll need to take steps to have it safely removed or managed.