Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials due to its heat-resistant and fire-resistant properties. However, it was discovered that asbestos can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, if inhaled. As a result, the use of asbestos in building materials was banned in the UK in 1999.

Despite the ban, many buildings still contain asbestos, especially those built before the 1980s. Asbestos can be found in a variety of building materials, including insulation, roofing, flooring, and pipes. It is important to have any asbestos-containing materials removed by a professional to ensure the safety of everyone in the building.