Disposing of asbestos waste safely and legally is a critical part of managing asbestos in any domestic setting. Whether you're a Mill Brow 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. That means it must be:
- Dealt with cautiously to minimise fibre exposure,
- Sealed in dual layers of plastic with warning signs,
- Disposed of at a licensed site local to Mill Brow 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
- Check with Your Local Council 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 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?
- Must you schedule your visit?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- Is it exclusive to homeowners and not commercial operators?
- Use the Environment Agency's Public Registers When dealing with larger loads or assisting others, a registered carrier might be needed. The Environment Agency (EA) keeps a public register of:
- Licensed Mill Brow 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. 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:
- Double-wrapped in heavy-duty polythene (typically 1,000 gauge).
- 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.
On-Site Requirements for Asbestos Drop-Off When visiting a disposal site:
- Take documents confirming your identity and address.
- Bring along your appointment details if pre-booked.
- Transport asbestos separately from other waste.
- Pay attention to safety instructions from site personnel.
You may also be asked to fill out a waste declaration form, especially if the site requires tracking of hazardous materials.
Closing Advice
You should never be casual about how you dispose of asbestos. Most local authorities offer practical, safe options if you check first.
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 Mill Brow residents on the site here:
- What Mill Brow Surveyors Look For With Their ACM Survey
- How To Find An Mill Brow Asbestos Disposal Site
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In Mill Brow Households
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: