Properly getting rid of asbestos waste is essential when handling asbestos in UK homes. Even small amounts of asbestos from home DIY or landlord maintenance must go to a registered disposal centre.
Read on to find where and how to dispose of asbestos waste responsibly.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. That means it must be:
- Dealt with cautiously to minimise fibre exposure,
- Wrapped in thick polythene and clearly labelled,
- Taken only to authorised locations set up to handle asbestos.
Illegal disposal-or fly-tipping-can result in serious fines and health risks.
How to Identify a Certified Asbestos Drop-Off Location
- Contact Your Local Authority Your council may run recycling centres that allow for domestic asbestos disposal. Start by visiting your council's website and searching for "asbestos disposal."
You may also search the national register at https://www.gov.uk/asbestos-in-home. Find a local asbestos disposal site on GOV.UK
Key things to check:
- Is the site licensed to accept asbestos?
- Do you need to book an appointment in advance?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- Is it exclusive to homeowners and not commercial operators?
- Use the Environment Agency's Public Registers When dealing with larger loads or assisting others, a registered carrier might be needed. The Environment Agency (EA) keeps a public register of:
- Licensed Highfields disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Get Advice from the Removal Company or Surveyor Surveyors and licensed contractors often have established disposal partners. Most licensed asbestos removal companies have contracts with registered waste facilities, and some offer a collection-only service for homeowners.
Preparing Asbestos for Disposal Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Clearly labelled with asbestos warning stickers.
- Carried safely in a sealed vehicle compartment.
Wear appropriate PPE (including gloves and an FFP3 mask) when handling the materials-even for short journeys.
On-Site Requirements for Asbestos Drop-Off When visiting a disposal site:
- Take documents confirming your identity and address.
- Bring along your appointment details if pre-booked.
- Transport asbestos separately from other waste.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
You may also be asked to fill out a waste declaration form, especially if the site requires tracking of hazardous materials.
Closing Advice
You should never be casual about how you dispose of asbestos. Thankfully, councils offer clear guidance-just ensure you follow instructions and plan ahead.
If in doubt, contact your local authority or speak to a licensed Highfields asbestos contractor. 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 Highfields residents on the site here:
- What Highfields Contractors Check For During An Building Report
- Where to Locate Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in Highfields
- Common Places To Find ACMs In Highfields Households
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: