Disposing of asbestos waste safely and legally is a critical part of managing asbestos in any domestic setting. Whether you're a Eyam homeowner who's removed a few old asbestos cement sheets or a landlord clearing out an old water tank, you can't simply take asbestos to your local tip unless it's a licensed facility.
Read on to find where and how to dispose of asbestos waste responsibly.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Asbestos is classed as hazardous waste in the UK. This means the following conditions apply:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- Double-bagged or wrapped in polythene with proper labelling,
- Disposed of at a licensed site local to Eyam and equipped to manage asbestos safely.
Dumping asbestos illegally carries both legal and health consequences.
Finding a Legal Asbestos Waste Site: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Check with Your Local Council Local councils often operate HWRCs that accept limited asbestos waste from residents. Start by visiting your council's website and searching for "asbestos disposal."
Alternatively, try the government-approved directory: Find a local asbestos disposal site on GOV.UK
Key things to check:
- Is the facility authorised to receive asbestos?
- Must you schedule your visit?
- Are there rules about volume or wrapping?
- Is it only for domestic use, not trade or commercial waste?
- Consult the Environment Agency's Online Listings If you're disposing of larger amounts or managing it on behalf of someone else, you may need a licensed waste carrier. You can access these details via the Environment Agency's public register:
- Licensed Eyam disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Get Advice from the Removal Company or Surveyor If you've recently had an asbestos survey or professional removal, ask the contractor where they dispose of waste. Most licensed asbestos removal companies have contracts with registered waste facilities, and some offer a collection-only service for homeowners.
How to Package Asbestos for Safe Transport Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Properly tagged to alert of asbestos content.
- Kept securely separate during travel.
Personal protective equipment is vital, even for brief handling.
What You'll Need on the Day When visiting a disposal site:
- Bring ID and proof of address.
- Have your booking confirmation if required.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
Sometimes, you'll need to complete paperwork to comply with tracking regulations.
In Summary
You should never be casual about how you dispose of asbestos. Most local authorities offer practical, safe options if you check first.
If in doubt, contact your local authority or speak to a licensed Eyam asbestos contractor. They'll help you navigate the process legally and safely.
You can get a quote for asbestos testing, surveys and removal here.
We've got more information for Eyam residents on the site here:
- What Eyam Experts Check For In Their Asbestos Report
- Finding Reputable Asbestos Disposal Businesses in Eyam
- Common Places To Find Asbestos In Eyam Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: