Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral which was widely used in the construction industry until it was discovered that it posed a significant risk to health. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release tiny fibers into the air that can be easily breathed in. If these fibers are inhaled, they can cause serious health problems, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

Asbestos-containing materials can be found in many properties built before the 1980s. These materials were commonly used to insulate buildings and were often made into products such as pipes, cement sheets, and ceiling tiles.