Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials throughout the 20th century. It was highly prized for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and flame. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers are highly hazardous to human health, causing a range of serious illnesses including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were used in a wide range of construction applications, including insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, roofing, and more. Many older properties, especially those built before the 1980s, are likely to contain asbestos.