Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building construction during the 20th century. It's durable, heat resistant, and has insulating properties, which made it a popular material for use in building insulation, roofing, and fireproofing. Unfortunately, asbestos has been found to be a health hazard when its microscopic fibers become airborne and are inhaled, leading to serious respiratory illnesses such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Because of its health risks, the use of asbestos in building construction has been banned in the UK since 1999. However, many older buildings still contain asbestos, which means that asbestos removal is still a necessary service for many property owners.