Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used extensively in building materials throughout the 20th century. It was valued for its heat-resistant properties and durability, making it a popular choice for everything from insulation to roofing materials.

However, we now know that asbestos is highly toxic and can cause a variety of serious illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers are easily inhaled and can cause damage to the lungs over time, leading to these dangerous diseases.

Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but many buildings constructed before that time still contain asbestos in some form. That's why it is important to have a professional asbestos survey carried out on any building that was constructed before the year 2000.