Because of its durability and fire resistance, asbestos was widely utilized for electrical and building insulation, particularly during the 1930s and 1970s. Because of its toxicity and threat to human health, asbestos has been tightly limited and phased out in the building, automotive, and materials industries since the 1980s.

As a result, a slew of federal, state, and local rules govern the manufacture, installation, monitoring, and removal of asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestos surveys are frequently required as part of due diligence during commercial real estate transactions or financing, prior to building demolition or renovation, or after suspected building damage after flooding or major natural disasters.