Asbestos is a mineral that is made up of microscopic fibers that are resistant to heat and fire. The use of asbestos was once widespread in building materials because of its durability and fire-resistant properties. Common materials that may contain asbestos include:

• Insulation (e.g., thermal pipe insulation, ceiling insulation, cavity wall insulation)
• Flooring (e.g., vinyl tiles, mastic adhesive)
• Roofing (e.g., corrugated asbestos cement sheets)
• Cement products (e.g., pipes, gutters, water tanks)

Asbestos is dangerous because when it's disturbed, it releases tiny fibers into the air that can be inhaled into the lungs. Once these fibers become lodged in the lungs, they can cause scarring and inflammation, which can lead to serious respiratory diseases, such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.