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.
This guide will help you locate the correct site and prepare properly.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. That means it must be:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- Double-bagged or wrapped in polythene with proper labelling,
- Delivered to certified waste centres in Shirley that can process asbestos securely.
Dumping asbestos illegally carries both legal and health consequences.
How to Identify a Certified Asbestos Drop-Off Location
- Contact Your Local Authority Many local authorities have one or more household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) that accept small quantities of asbestos from domestic properties. Start by visiting your council's website and searching for "asbestos disposal."
You can also use the UK government's official search tool. Find a local asbestos disposal site on GOV.UK
Key things to check:
- Does the centre officially take asbestos waste?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- Is it exclusive to homeowners and not commercial operators?
- Consult the Environment Agency's Online Listings Bigger quantities or third-party removals may require an approved waste handler. The Environment Agency (EA) keeps a public register of:
- Licensed Shirley disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Get Advice from the Removal Company or Surveyor Your removal company can usually advise on approved waste sites. Many contractors are linked to approved centres and may even pick up waste for you.
Preparing Asbestos for Disposal Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Marked visibly with official asbestos hazard labels.
- 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.
- Have your booking confirmation if required.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Follow staff instructions carefully.
Sites may request a form to document hazardous waste deliveries.
Closing Advice
Disposing of asbestos isn't something you want to cut corners on. Fortunately, most local councils make it straightforward for homeowners to do it properly-as long as you follow the correct steps and call ahead.
If you're uncertain, get advice from your council or an asbestos expert near Shirley. 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 Shirley residents on the site here:
- Understanding What Shirley Asbestos Surveys Consider
- How To Find An Accredited Shirley ACM Disposal Company
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In Shirley Residential Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: