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.
This guide will help you locate the correct site and prepare properly.
The Importance of Licensed Asbestos Disposal
In the UK, asbestos is officially labelled hazardous waste. That means 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.
Improper disposal, such as fly-tipping, can lead to severe penalties and danger.
Finding a Legal Asbestos Waste Site: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with Your Council's Waste Services 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:
- Does the centre officially take asbestos waste?
- Must you schedule your visit?
- Are there rules about volume or wrapping?
- Can only private individuals use the service?
- Search the EA's Database for Licensed Sites When dealing with larger loads or assisting others, a registered carrier might be needed. The Environment Agency (EA) keeps a public register of:
- Licensed Riddings 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. They may also provide collection options for small-scale domestic jobs.
Getting Asbestos Ready for Drop-Off 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.
Wear appropriate PPE (including gloves and an FFP3 mask) when handling the materials-even for short journeys.
What You'll Need on the Day When visiting a disposal site:
- Bring ID and proof of address.
- Make sure you have confirmation of your scheduled slot.
- Transport asbestos separately from other waste.
- Follow staff instructions carefully.
Sites may request a form to document hazardous waste deliveries.
Closing Advice
Disposing of asbestos isn't something you want to cut corners on. Thankfully, councils offer clear guidance-just ensure you follow instructions and plan ahead.
When unsure, reach out to a professional or your local council. 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 Riddings residents on the site here:
- What Does An Asbestos Survey In Riddings Look For?
- Where to Locate Legal Asbestos Disposal Points in Riddings
- Where To Look For Asbestos In Riddings Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: