Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined in many places in the world. The material got its name from ‘asbestiform’ that describes the fibrous structure that gives it flexibility and strength. It was used extensively in the past in building materials before its UK ban in 1999. Prior to this, asbestos was primarily used for insulation, flooring and roofing. It became clear that asbestos can cause serious damage to the lungs, causing diseases such as lung cancer and Mesothelioma. This is the reason for the UK wide ban in 1999.

However, buildings constructed or refurbed before the year 2000 have the possibility to still contain asbestos and should be presumed until proven otherwise.