Properly getting rid of asbestos waste is essential when handling asbestos in UK homes. Whether you're a Hartshorne 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 Safe Asbestos Disposal Is Important
UK regulations categorise asbestos as hazardous material. This means the following conditions apply:
- Carefully managed to prevent airborne fibres,
- Sealed in dual layers of plastic with warning signs,
- Delivered to certified waste centres in Hartshorne that can process asbestos securely.
Dumping asbestos illegally carries both legal and health consequences.
Finding a Legal Asbestos Waste Site: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with Your Council's Waste Services Local councils often operate HWRCs that accept limited asbestos waste from residents. Check their website for asbestos drop-off guidance.
You can also use the UK government's official search tool. Find a local asbestos disposal site on GOV.UK
Key things to check:
- Is the site licensed to accept asbestos?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- Are there rules about volume or wrapping?
- Is it only for domestic use, not trade or commercial waste?
- Use the Environment Agency's Public Registers Bigger quantities or third-party removals may require an approved waste handler. The Environment Agency (EA) keeps a public register of:
- Licensed Hartshorne disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Speak with Your Asbestos Professional Surveyors and licensed contractors often have established disposal partners. They may also provide collection options for small-scale domestic jobs.
Preparing Asbestos for Disposal Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Clearly labelled with asbestos warning stickers.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
Always use suitable protective gear-gloves and an FFP3-rated mask are essential.
What You'll Need on the Day When visiting a disposal site:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Have your booking confirmation if required.
- Ensure asbestos is isolated from other refuse during transport.
- 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.
When unsure, reach out to a professional or your local council. They can guide you through safe and compliant disposal procedures.
You can get a quote for asbestos testing, surveys and removal here.
We've got more information for Hartshorne residents on the site here:
- What Hartshorne Experts Check For With An Site Report
- Searching For Certified Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Hartshorne
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Hartshorne Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: