Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction from the early 20th century until the late 1970s, due to its durability, insulation properties, and resistance to fire and chemicals. Asbestos comes in different forms, including chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite, some of which are more hazardous than others.

The danger of asbestos lies in its tendency to release microscopic fibres into the air when disturbed, particularly during demolition or renovation activities. These fibres can then be inhaled or ingested by anyone in the vicinity, leading to serious health problems over time, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Therefore, it is important to identify the presence and condition of any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on your property through an asbestos survey, and take appropriate action to manage or remove them safely.