Properly getting rid of asbestos waste is essential when handling asbestos in UK homes. Whether you're a Bolsover 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.
Read on to find where and how to dispose of asbestos waste responsibly.
Why Safe Asbestos Disposal Is Important
UK regulations categorise asbestos as hazardous material. Therefore, it must be:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- Wrapped in thick polythene and clearly labelled,
- Delivered to certified waste centres in Bolsover that can process asbestos securely.
Improper disposal, such as fly-tipping, can lead to severe penalties and danger.
How to Identify a Certified Asbestos Drop-Off Location
- Contact Your Local Authority 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 site licensed to accept asbestos?
- Do you need to book an appointment in advance?
- Does the site limit how much or how it's packaged?
- Is it exclusive to homeowners and not commercial operators?
- Use the Environment Agency's Public Registers 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 Bolsover disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Speak with Your Asbestos Professional 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.
- Kept securely separate during travel.
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:
- Take documents confirming your identity and address.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Follow staff instructions carefully.
Sites may request a form to document hazardous waste deliveries.
Final Thoughts
Disposing of asbestos isn't something you want to cut corners on. Most local authorities offer practical, safe options if you check first.
If in doubt, contact your local authority or speak to a licensed Bolsover asbestos contractor. 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 Bolsover residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Bolsover Look For?
- How To Find An Accredited Bolsover Asbestos Disposal Company
- Where To Look For Asbestos-Containing Materials In Bolsover Homes
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: