Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals that were used in construction materials due to their strength, durability and fire-resistant properties. Asbestos was widely used in buildings in the UK up until its ban in 1999. It was used in a variety of materials, including insulation, cement, pipes, and ceiling tiles.

The danger with asbestos is that if it is disturbed or damaged, it can release microscopic fibres that can cause serious health conditions such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. This is why it is important to have an asbestos survey in Chillington before any refurbishment or demolition work takes place.