Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre, used for its physical properties such as resistance to high temperatures, chemical resistance to various elements such as (rust and moisture) and high tensile strength..

Asbestos was used extensively in the wet areas of housing such as laundries, kitchens, bathrooms, shower recesses, toilets, under eaves and roofs.

It was commonly used in ceilings, walls, vinyl floor tiles, heatbanks and flues.

Asbestos was also used extensively in the construction of many rural sheds and storm water pipes.

The use of Asbestos ceased around 1983 following many cases with serious health problems being identified as the result of exposure to Asbestos in various ways.

Houses built up to this time may contain Asbestos in the areas mentioned earlier.