Disposing of asbestos waste safely and legally is a critical part of managing asbestos in any domestic setting. 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.
The Importance of Licensed Asbestos Disposal
UK regulations categorise asbestos as hazardous material. Therefore, 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.
Step-by-Step: How to Find a Licensed Asbestos Disposal Site Near Old Whittington
- Check with Your Local Council Your council may run recycling centres that allow for domestic asbestos disposal. Begin your search online under your council's waste or recycling section.
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 facility authorised to receive asbestos?
- Must you schedule your visit?
- Does the site limit how much or how it's packaged?
- Can only private individuals use the service?
- Consult the Environment Agency's Online Listings Bigger quantities or third-party removals may require an approved waste handler. The EA maintains a public list of:
- Licensed Old Whittington disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Ask Your Asbestos Contractor or Surveyor Surveyors and licensed contractors often have established disposal partners. Many contractors are linked to approved centres and may even pick up waste for you.
Getting Asbestos Ready for Drop-Off Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Properly tagged to alert of asbestos content.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
Wear appropriate PPE (including gloves and an FFP3 mask) when handling the materials-even for short journeys.
What to Bring When Visiting the Site When visiting a disposal site:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
Sites may request a form to document hazardous waste deliveries.
Final Thoughts
You should never be casual about how you dispose of asbestos. Fortunately, most local councils make it straightforward for homeowners to do it properly-as long as you follow the correct steps and call ahead.
When unsure, reach out to a professional or your local council. 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 Old Whittington residents on the site here:
- Understanding What Old Whittington Asbestos Surveys Consider
- How To Find A Trustworthy Old Whittington Asbestos Disposal Site
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Old Whittington Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: