Properly getting rid of asbestos waste is essential when handling asbestos in UK homes. Whether you're a Codnor Park 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:
- Carefully managed to prevent airborne fibres,
- Sealed in dual layers of plastic with warning signs,
- Taken only to authorised locations set up to handle asbestos.
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 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?
- Must you schedule your visit?
- Does the site limit how much or how it's packaged?
- Can only private individuals use the service?
- Use the Environment Agency's Public Registers 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 Codnor Park disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Get Advice from the Removal Company or Surveyor Surveyors and licensed contractors often have established disposal partners. Most licensed asbestos removal companies have contracts with registered waste facilities, and some offer a collection-only service for homeowners.
Preparing Asbestos for Disposal 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.
- Carried safely in a sealed vehicle compartment.
Always use suitable protective gear-gloves and an FFP3-rated mask are essential.
What to Bring When Visiting the Site When visiting a disposal site:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Have your booking confirmation if required.
- Transport asbestos separately from other waste.
- Follow staff instructions carefully.
Sites may request a form to document hazardous waste deliveries.
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 Codnor Park residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Codnor Park Aim To Find?
- Identifying Accredited Sites for Asbestos Waste Disposal in Codnor Park
- Common Places To Find Asbestos-Containing Materials In Codnor Park Domestic Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: