Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was widely used in construction materials from the 1950s until the early 2000s. It was commonly used in roofing and insulation materials, floor tiles, and electrical wiring. Despite its versatility, asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems when inhaled.

Exposure to asbestos can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and abdomen and is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease that occurs when asbestos fibers are inhaled and cause scarring of the lung tissue.

The use of asbestos in new construction materials has been banned in the UK since 1999. However, many older homes and commercial buildings still contain asbestos due to its previous widespread use. If your property was built before the year 2000, there may be asbestos-containing materials present.