Safe and lawful disposal of asbestos is a vital step in domestic asbestos management. 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
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. Therefore, it must be:
- Carefully managed to prevent airborne fibres,
- Sealed in dual layers of plastic with warning signs,
- Delivered to certified waste centres in New Mills that can process asbestos securely.
Dumping asbestos illegally carries both legal and health consequences.
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 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:
- Does the centre officially take asbestos waste?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- Are there rules about volume or wrapping?
- Is it only for domestic use, not trade or commercial waste?
- Search the EA's Database for Licensed Sites Bigger quantities or third-party removals may require an approved waste handler. You can access these details via the Environment Agency's public register:
- Licensed New Mills 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.
Getting Asbestos Ready for Drop-Off Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Sealed securely in two layers of thick polythene, ideally 1,000 gauge.
- Clearly labelled with asbestos warning stickers.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
Personal protective equipment is vital, even for brief handling.
What to Bring When Visiting the Site 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.
- Pay attention to safety instructions from site personnel.
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 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 New Mills residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In New Mills Inspect?
- Finding Certified Sites for Asbestos Waste in New Mills
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In New Mills Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: