Asbestos was widely used in the UK construction industry until 1999, and it is still present in many homes and commercial buildings today. As a property owner, you have a legal obligation to ensure that your building is safe for occupants and visitors. This includes checking for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in the building's structure and fixtures. ACMs can be found in many areas of a building, including insulation, flooring, walls, ceilings, and roofing materials.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are identified through visual inspections, and the testing process involves taking samples and running them through a lab. The lab will confirm whether or not the material is asbestos-containing, and if it is, what type of asbestos it is.

It's important to note that asbestos is not dangerous in itself. It's when the ACMs are disturbed that they release harmful fibres which can then be inhaled. This is why the testing process is so important, as it enables you to identify any ACMs in your property that may need to be addressed.