Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, insulation, and manufacturing in the UK until it was banned in 1999. While asbestos was once considered a miracle mineral for its durability and fire-resistant properties, it was later discovered that inhaling asbestos fibres could lead to severe health complications, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos can be found in many materials in older buildings, including insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing, and plaster. It's often present in the home without the homeowner even knowing. The only way to determine if a material contains asbestos is by having it tested by a certified professional.