Properly getting rid of asbestos waste is essential when handling asbestos in UK homes. Even small amounts of asbestos from home DIY or landlord maintenance must go to a registered disposal centre.
Read on to find where and how to dispose of asbestos waste responsibly.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Asbestos is classed as hazardous waste in the UK. This means the following conditions apply:
- Handled carefully to avoid fibre release,
- Wrapped in thick polythene and clearly labelled,
- Taken only to authorised locations set up to handle asbestos.
Improper disposal, such as fly-tipping, can lead to severe penalties and danger.
How to Identify a Certified Asbestos Drop-Off Location
- Start with Your Council's Waste Services Local councils often operate HWRCs that accept limited asbestos waste from residents. Check their website for asbestos drop-off guidance.
Alternatively, try the government-approved directory: 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 only for domestic use, not trade or commercial waste?
- Search the EA's Database for Licensed Sites If you're disposing of larger amounts or managing it on behalf of someone else, you may need a licensed waste carrier. The EA maintains a public list of:
- Licensed Borrowash disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Get Advice from the Removal Company or Surveyor Your removal company can usually advise on approved waste sites. Many contractors are linked to approved centres and may even pick up waste for you.
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.
- Kept securely separate during travel.
Always use suitable protective gear-gloves and an FFP3-rated mask are essential.
On-Site Requirements for Asbestos Drop-Off When visiting a disposal site:
- Have photo identification and something showing your residence.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Transport asbestos separately from other waste.
- Pay attention to safety instructions from site personnel.
Sometimes, you'll need to complete paperwork to comply with tracking regulations.
Closing Advice
Asbestos disposal is not an area where shortcuts are acceptable. Fortunately, most local councils make it straightforward for homeowners to do it properly-as long as you follow the correct steps and call ahead.
If in doubt, contact your local authority or speak to a licensed Borrowash asbestos contractor. 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 Borrowash residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Borrowash Consider?
- Searching For Certified Sites for Asbestos Waste in Borrowash
- Typical Locations Of ACMs In Borrowash Residential Buildings
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: