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Topicdrill – Germany explained simply

Germany explained simply – moving, offices & paperwork in English

Where does it go? · Schadstoffe

Disposing of: Asbestos

Asbestos (e.g. old fibre-cement sheets, Floor-Flex tiles, storage heaters) is hazardous waste. Have larger amounts removed by a licensed company. Some recycling centres or hazardous-waste sites accept small amounts – only sealed airtight (big bag/foil) and usually by appointment.

Do not break, saw, drill or sand – asbestos fibres cause cancer.

01 Where it goes

  1. 01 · RECOMMENDEDHazardous-waste collectionNever in household waste – take it to the hazardous-waste collection.
  2. 02 Recycling centreDrop it off yourself – opening hours and conditions are on the city page.

02 Tips

  • Call the waste company first: acceptance, packaging and costs vary a lot.
  • Wet the boards and remove them unbroken.

03 Good to know

Paint, varnish, chemicals

Hazardous waste such as solvents, paint, varnish or pesticides goes to the hazardous-waste collection (Schadstoffmobil). Dried-out emulsion paint may go in general waste in many places.

Recycling centre

At the recycling centre (Wertstoffhof) you drop off bulky waste, electronics, garden waste, wood, metal and more yourself. What's accepted and what it costs is set by the city's waste rules.

Give things a second life

Furniture and appliances that still work are welcome at social department stores, swap groups or classified ads – it saves fees and resources.

05 Disposing of Asbestos in your city

? FAQ: Asbestos

Q01Where do I take Asbestos in Germany?

Asbestos (e.g. old fibre-cement sheets, Floor-Flex tiles, storage heaters) is hazardous waste. Have larger amounts removed by a licensed company. Some recycling centres or hazardous-waste sites accept small amounts – only sealed airtight (big bag/foil) and usually by appointment.

Q02Does disposing of Asbestos cost anything?

It depends on your city: many offer free bulky-waste pickups or free drop-off at the recycling centre up to a certain amount. Check your city page for the exact fees.

Q03Can Asbestos go in household waste?

No – it counts as hazardous waste and must go to the hazardous-waste collection.