Properly getting rid of asbestos waste is essential when handling asbestos in UK homes. You can't just take asbestos to any local dump-only approved sites can accept it, whether you've taken out cement sheets or old tanks.
Read on to find where and how to dispose of asbestos waste responsibly.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Asbestos is classed as hazardous waste in the UK. This means the following conditions apply:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- Double-bagged or wrapped in polythene with proper labelling,
- Delivered to certified waste centres in Horsley 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. 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:
- Does the centre officially take asbestos waste?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- 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 If you're disposing of larger amounts or managing it on behalf of someone else, you may need a licensed waste carrier. You can access these details via the Environment Agency's public register:
- Licensed Horsley 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.
Preparing Asbestos for Disposal 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 You'll Need on the Day When visiting a disposal site:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Bring along your appointment details if pre-booked.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Follow staff instructions carefully.
You may also be asked to fill out a waste declaration form, especially if the site requires tracking of hazardous materials.
Closing Advice
Asbestos disposal is not an area where shortcuts are acceptable. Most local authorities offer practical, safe options if you check first.
When unsure, reach out to a professional or your local council. 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 Horsley residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Horsley Consider?
- Finding Approved Sites for Asbestos Waste in Horsley
- Where To Look For ACMs In Horsley Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: