Safe and lawful disposal of asbestos is a vital step in domestic asbestos management. Whether you're a The Brushes 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.
Here's how to find the right disposal site-and what you need to know before making the trip.
The Importance of Licensed Asbestos Disposal
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. Therefore, it must be:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- Wrapped in thick polythene and clearly labelled,
- Disposed of at a licensed site local to The Brushes and equipped to manage asbestos safely.
Illegal disposal-or fly-tipping-can result in serious fines and health risks.
Finding a Legal Asbestos Waste Site: A Step-by-Step Guide
- 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. 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?
- Do you need to book an appointment in advance?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- Can only private individuals use the service?
- Search the EA's Database for Licensed Sites If you're disposing of larger amounts or managing it on behalf of someone else, you may need a licensed waste carrier. The EA maintains a public list of:
- Licensed The Brushes disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Speak with Your Asbestos Professional 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:
- Sealed securely in two layers of thick polythene, ideally 1,000 gauge.
- Marked visibly with official asbestos hazard labels.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
Personal protective equipment is vital, even for brief handling.
On-Site Requirements for Asbestos Drop-Off When visiting a disposal site:
- Take documents confirming your identity and address.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Transport asbestos separately from other waste.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
Sometimes, you'll need to complete paperwork to comply with tracking regulations.
Final Thoughts
Disposing of asbestos isn't something you want to cut corners on. Thankfully, councils offer clear guidance-just ensure you follow instructions and plan 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 The Brushes residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What The Brushes Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Finding Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in The Brushes
- Common Places To Find ACMs In The Brushes Residential Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: