Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry during the 20th century. It is valued for its fire-resistant, insulating, and soundproofing properties. However, it is also highly toxic and carcinogenic, meaning that long-term exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

While asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999, many buildings erected prior to this date still contain asbestos materials that may pose a health hazard. Asbestos-containing materials can be found in a variety of places, including:

• Roofs and gutters
• Ceilings and walls
• Pipework and insulation
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Boilers and furnaces
• Textured coatings and paints

If you suspect that your building may contain asbestos, it is essential to have it tested by a professional asbestos testing company. Testing involves taking samples of suspected materials and sending them to a UKAS-accredited laboratory for analysis. Only accredited laboratories are authorised to carry out asbestos testing, and their results are legally binding.