Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the 20th century for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. It was commonly added to building and construction materials such as insulation, roof tiles, flooring, pipes, and cement, among others. However, over time, it became clear that asbestos was also associated with severe health risks, as inhaling its microscopic fibres can cause serious respiratory and lung diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Therefore, it is crucial to identify and assess any materials that may contain asbestos in your property, especially if it was built or renovated before the year 2000. Asbestos testing involves taking samples of suspicious materials, such as textured coatings, ceiling tiles, or floor tiles, and sending them to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis. The results will determine whether the material contains asbestos, and if so, to what extent and type.