Asbestos is a naturally occurring material that was popularly used in the construction of residential and commercial properties until its ban in the UK in 1999. It was widely used in a variety of building materials, including insulation, ceiling and floor tiles, plumbing and roofing materials, and more.

Although asbestos was once regarded as an excellent material for building and insulation, it has been found to pose serious health risks, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma - a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Given that asbestos was so commonly used in construction prior to its ban, it is estimated that up to 50% of all UK properties built before 1999 may contain asbestos materials.