Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that was once widely used in building materials across the UK. It was often used for insulation, roofing, and flooring. However, it was discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Asbestos is now banned in the UK, but many buildings constructed before the year 2000 still contain asbestos materials. That's why it's crucial to have your building materials tested for asbestos if you're unsure.