Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in building materials for many years due to its durability and fire-retardant properties. The problem with asbestos, however, is that it can cause serious respiratory problems when inhaled. Asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and other organs. Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until decades after exposure, making it a particularly insidious threat.

If you own a property built before 2000, there's a good chance that it contains asbestos in some form. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation, ceiling tiles, roofing materials, and other building components. Even if your building has undergone renovations or asbestos removal in the past, there may still be traces of the material that need to be identified and removed.