Asbestos is a fiber mineral that was once popular in construction due to its durability and resistance to heat, electricity, and chemical damage. In the early 1900s, it became a widely used construction material in the UK, with over 5.5 million tons of it used across the country. It was often used in roofing, insulation, and flooring.

However, asbestos can pose serious health hazards when inhaled or ingested, leading to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As such, asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999. Buildings built before 2000 might still contain asbestos. Therefore, if you suspect that materials in your property contain asbestos, you should have them tested immediately.