Determining source and quantity of asbestos material

Waste generated by householders undertaking large-scale construction or demolition projects (e.g. replacing a whole garage roof) is deemed to be industrial waste, not household waste. Such large quantities cannot be dealt with as normal household waste.

Disposal of household asbestos

There are two options for householders wishing to dispose of cement-bonded asbestos material, one of which is free of charge, whilst a charge is made for the other.

Delivery to a licensed Bulky Household Waste Site

Household asbestos waste can be accepted at four of our household recycling centres. These are located in Christchurch, Blandford, Wareham and Weymouth. The amount accepted is strictly limited to a one off drop of up to three sheets measuring six foot by four foot (6ft x 4ft). Please ensure that the material is double bagged. On arrival at the site, please explain to a member of staff what you have brought in.

Special collection 

If you are unable to transport household asbestos waste yourself to an appropriate household recycling centre, you can arrange this directly for a charge through a hazardous waste contractor. A full list of contractors operating in your area can be found by using the Environment Agency Waste Directory (opens in a new window).

Advice about handling asbestos material

Sprayed asbestos, lagging and insulating boards must only be removed by a licensed asbestos removal contractor. For further information we advise you seek specialist advice from an approved asbestos contractor or the Health and Safety Executive Health and Safety Executive (opens in a new window)).

Asbestos in your home

If your property is more than 15 years old, it is possible that it contains materials made from asbestos. Asbestos fibres are strong and resistant to heat and chemicals. In the past, this led to their use in a wide range of building materials and products.

Properties built since the mid 1980s are very unlikely to contain asbestos in the fabric of the building. Properties built after 1990 are extremely unlikely to contain asbestos anywhere in the building. Asbestos cement has been widely used as a cladding material and can still be found in garages and sheds.

Why is asbestos potentially a problem?

All materials containing asbestos can be harmful if fibres are inhaled. In recent years a number of alternative or substitute products have been developed.

How do you know if a material contains asbestos?

Identifying asbestos products can be difficult but if you think products contain asbestos but are unsure, the manufacturer or supplier should be able to help you. Some storage heaters contain asbestos.

Day-to-day exposure to asbestos

There is a very low level of fibres in the air everywhere because asbestos has been used so extensively in the past. Exposure to this low level of fibres is unlikely to harm people's health.

Exposure to asbestos fibres can occur during DIY work so try not to raise dust when working with materials which might contain asbestos and avoid sanding or drilling. If in doubt do not touch it.