Safe and lawful disposal of asbestos is a vital step in domestic asbestos management. Even small amounts of asbestos from home DIY or landlord maintenance must go to a registered disposal centre.
Here's how to find the right disposal site-and what you need to know before making the trip.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. This means the following conditions apply:
- Carefully managed to prevent airborne fibres,
- Wrapped in thick polythene and clearly labelled,
- Taken only to authorised locations set up to handle asbestos.
Illegal disposal-or fly-tipping-can result in serious fines and health risks.
How to Identify a Certified Asbestos Drop-Off Location
- Check with Your Local Council Your council may run recycling centres that allow for domestic asbestos disposal. Check their website for asbestos drop-off guidance.
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 facility authorised to receive 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 When dealing with larger loads or assisting others, a registered carrier might be needed. The EA maintains a public list of:
- Licensed New Smithy 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.
How to Package Asbestos for Safe Transport Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Marked visibly with official asbestos hazard labels.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
Personal protective equipment is vital, even for brief handling.
What You'll Need on the Day When visiting a disposal site:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Keep asbestos apart from any other rubbish in your vehicle.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
Sometimes, you'll need to complete paperwork to comply with tracking regulations.
Final Thoughts
Asbestos disposal is not an area where shortcuts are acceptable. Thankfully, councils offer clear guidance-just ensure you follow instructions and plan ahead.
If you're uncertain, get advice from your council or an asbestos expert near New Smithy. 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 New Smithy residents on the site here:
- A Look At What New Smithy Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Identifying Approved Sites for Asbestos Waste in New Smithy
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In New Smithy Households
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: