Safe and lawful disposal of asbestos is a vital step in domestic asbestos management. Whether you're a Dore 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.
Why Safe Asbestos Disposal Is Important
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. That means it must be:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- 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.
Finding a Legal Asbestos Waste Site: A Step-by-Step Guide
- 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 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?
- Must you schedule your visit?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- 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. The EA maintains a public list of:
- Licensed Dore 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. 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:
- Enclosed in strong double-layer plastic sheeting.
- Properly tagged to alert of asbestos content.
- Transported in a sealed part of your car or van.
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:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Bring along your appointment details if pre-booked.
- 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
Asbestos disposal is not an area where shortcuts are acceptable. Most local authorities offer practical, safe options if you check first.
If you're uncertain, get advice from your council or an asbestos expert near Dore. 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 Dore residents on the site here:
- An Overview Of What Dore Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Locating Legal Asbestos Disposal Firms in Dore
- Where To Look For Asbestos-Containing Materials In Dore Households
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: