Quick answer
Legally, yes — a homeowner can remove asbestos cement from their own home. In practice, it is rarely a good idea. You must comply with CAR 2012, use appropriate PPE and RPE, avoid breaking the sheets, use double-bagged red asbestos waste bags, and dispose of the material at a licensed HWRC. A competent contractor will typically do the job for £550–£950.
What the law says
CAR 2012 applies to work with asbestos. Non-licensed work — which includes intact asbestos cement removal — does not require a licensed contractor, and does not prevent a homeowner from carrying it out on their own home. However, the same regulations that apply to a contractor (assessment, controls, RPE, waste handling) apply to the homeowner in principle.
What you must do if you self-remove
Assess the material and confirm it is intact cement (a sample test is wise). Wear disposable coveralls, gloves, and a properly fitted P3 respirator. Wet the material lightly to suppress fibres. Do not break, cut or drill the sheets. Remove whole sheets by lifting fixings. Double-wrap in 1000-gauge polythene and red asbestos waste bags. Dispose only at a licensed HWRC (many require pre-booking).
Why most people don't
A competent contractor will typically remove a small garage roof in half a day for £550–£950 including disposal and waste transfer notes. Given the RPE, coveralls, tipping fees and the labour, DIY rarely saves money and carries meaningful risk.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
Do I need HSE notification?+
For intact asbestos cement (non-licensed, non-notifiable), no notification is required.
Can I take it to a regular tip?+
No — asbestos waste must go to a licensed HWRC. Most councils accept small quantities from residents by appointment.
What if the sheets break?+
Broken material becomes higher risk and generates fibres. Stop, damp down, isolate the area and call a competent contractor.