Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials in the UK until the mid-1980s. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be found in many buildings constructed before 2000. The hazardous effects of asbestos come from its ability to break down into tiny fibres that can be easily inhaled. These fibres can then cause damage to the lungs and other organs over time, leading to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

ACMs can be found in many areas of a property, including walls, ceilings, insulation, pipes, and flooring. Asbestos testing is essential to identify and assess the risk of exposure to asbestos-containing materials.