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.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
UK regulations categorise asbestos as hazardous material. Therefore, it must be:
- Carefully managed to prevent airborne fibres,
- 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.
Finding a Legal Asbestos Waste Site: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with Your Council's Waste Services Many local authorities have one or more household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) that accept small quantities of asbestos from domestic properties. 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:
- Is the facility authorised to receive asbestos?
- Is prior booking necessary?
- Are there quantity or packaging restrictions?
- Is it exclusive to homeowners and not commercial operators?
- Consult the Environment Agency's Online Listings When dealing with larger loads or assisting others, a registered carrier might be needed. The EA maintains a public list of:
- Licensed Boylestone disposal facilities across Derbyshire (landfills and transfer stations)
- Registered hazardous waste carriers
- Get Advice from the Removal Company or Surveyor 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.
Preparing Asbestos for Disposal Most sites require asbestos to be:
- Double-wrapped in heavy-duty polythene (typically 1,000 gauge).
- 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.
What to Bring When Visiting the Site 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.
- Listen to and follow all site staff directions.
You may also be asked to fill out a waste declaration form, especially if the site requires tracking of hazardous materials.
Final Thoughts
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 Boylestone 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 Boylestone residents on the site here:
- Understanding What Boylestone Asbestos Surveys Examine
- Where to Locate Reputable Asbestos Disposal Points in Boylestone
- Where To Look For Asbestos In Boylestone Houses
We also cover more of the local Derbyshire area too: