Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in construction materials for decades. It is a strong, heat-resistant fiber that was often used for insulation, roofing, and flooring. While asbestos was once used widely due to its insulating properties, we now know that exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other serious illnesses.

If you live in a property built before 2000, it may contain asbestos. Signs that a property may contain asbestos include:

• A textured coating on walls or ceilings
• Loose fill insulation
• Insulation boards in fireplaces, partitions, or paneling
• Lagging around pipes or boilers
• Roofing or guttering made from asbestos cement
• Asbestos-containing floor tiles or backing
• Certain types of glue or sealants containing asbestos

If you are planning renovations or repairs on your property, it is crucial to have an asbestos survey completed to ensure the safety of the people working on your property, as well as anyone who will be using the building once work is complete.