Safe and lawful disposal of asbestos is a vital step in domestic asbestos management. Even small amounts of asbestos from home DIY or landlord maintenance must go to a registered disposal centre.
Here's how to find the right disposal site-and what you need to know before making the trip.
Why Safe Asbestos Disposal Is Important
Asbestos is classed as hazardous waste in the UK. This means the following conditions apply:
- Carefully managed to prevent airborne fibres,
- Sealed in dual layers of plastic with warning signs,
- Disposed of at a licensed site local to Westhouses and equipped to manage asbestos safely.
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. 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 facility authorised to receive asbestos?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- Does the site limit how much or how it's packaged?
- Is it exclusive to homeowners and not commercial operators?
- Consult the Environment Agency's Online Listings If you're disposing of larger amounts or managing it on behalf of someone else, you may need a licensed waste carrier. The Environment Agency (EA) keeps a public register of:
- Licensed Westhouses disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Ask Your Asbestos Contractor 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.
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.
- Properly tagged to alert of asbestos content.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
Always use suitable protective gear-gloves and an FFP3-rated mask are essential.
On-Site Requirements for Asbestos Drop-Off When visiting a disposal site:
- Bring ID and proof of address.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Follow staff instructions carefully.
Sometimes, you'll need to complete paperwork to comply with tracking regulations.
In Summary
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.
When unsure, reach out to a professional or your local council. They'll ensure you manage everything by the book and avoid unnecessary risk.
You can get a quote for asbestos testing, surveys and removal here.
We've got more information for Westhouses residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Westhouses Asbestos Surveys Consider
- Finding Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Westhouses
- Typical Locations Of Asbestos-Containing Materials In Westhouses Residential Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: