Safe and lawful disposal of asbestos is a vital step in domestic asbestos management. Whether you're a Hammersmith 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.
This guide will help you locate the correct site and prepare properly.
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,
- Double-bagged or wrapped in polythene with proper labelling,
- 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
- Start with Your Council's Waste Services Your council may run recycling centres that allow for domestic asbestos disposal. 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:
- Does the centre officially take asbestos waste?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- Is it only for domestic use, not trade or commercial waste?
- 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. You can access these details via the Environment Agency's public register:
- Licensed Hammersmith disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Ask Your Asbestos Contractor or Surveyor Surveyors and licensed contractors often have established disposal partners. Many contractors are linked to approved centres and may even pick up waste for you.
Getting Asbestos Ready for Drop-Off Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Sealed securely in two layers of thick polythene, ideally 1,000 gauge.
- Marked visibly with official asbestos hazard labels.
- Carried safely in a sealed vehicle compartment.
Always use suitable protective gear-gloves and an FFP3-rated mask are essential.
What You'll Need on the Day When visiting a disposal site:
- Bring ID and proof of address.
- Bring along your appointment details if pre-booked.
- Ensure asbestos is isolated from other refuse during transport.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
Sometimes, you'll need to complete paperwork to comply with tracking regulations.
In Summary
You should never be casual about how you dispose of asbestos. Thankfully, councils offer clear guidance-just ensure you follow instructions and plan ahead.
If in doubt, contact your local authority or speak to a licensed Hammersmith asbestos contractor. They can guide you through safe and compliant disposal procedures.
You can get a quote for asbestos testing, surveys and removal here.
We've got more information for Hammersmith residents on the site here:
- What Hammersmith Surveyors Check For During An Asbestos Inspection
- Locating Legal Asbestos Disposal Points in Hammersmith
- Where To Look For Asbestos-Containing Materials In Hammersmith Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: