Asbestos on the Roof - What You Need to Know About Removal, Protection and Disposal

*The image was AI-generated for illustrative purposes.

Asbestos on roofs is an issue where trying to “just get it done quickly” can become very costly and, above all, dangerous. Asbestos-containing materials may still be present today, particularly during renovations, demolition, repairs, work on penetrations, drainage or chimney connections. In Germany, work involving asbestos is strictly regulated, in particular by TRGS 519 (as of 2026).

In this article from Roofify, you'll find a practical overview of what asbestos is, how to identify suspected cases, which protective measures roofing businesses are required to take and which are advisable, and how packaging, asbestos labeling, transport and disposal should be handled correctly.

What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals. Due to its heat resistance, tensile strength and insulating properties, asbestos was formerly used in numerous building materials, including roofing.

The risk: When asbestos-containing products are worked on or broken, microscopic fibers can be released. These fibers can be inhaled deep into the lungs and are carcinogenic. For this reason, demolition, renovation and maintenance work (ASI work), as well as asbestos disposal, are strictly regulated by TRGS 519.

Where can you find asbestos on a roof?

Typical sources of asbestos

• Asbestos cement:
  • Corrugated panels (e.g. old “Eternit” corrugated panels)
  • Facade and roof panels, including some artificial slate panels
  • Ridge, verge components, ventilation cowls, molded parts
• Other possible sources:
  • Old fire protection panels / fire barriers
  • Certain filler compounds, adhesives or plasters (mostly indoors, but relevant during renovations)

Note: Asbestos has been banned in Germany since 1993. Nevertheless, existing buildings, particularly those from the 1990s and earlier, may still contain asbestos.

How to identify asbestos: Spotting suspected cases

1) Building age & appearance

• Built before 1993: The risk of asbestos is significantly higher.
• Typical appearance: Corrugated asbestos cement is often gray, cement-like and appears weathered or “chalky.”
• Panels are often attached with punched fasteners, rivets or special hooks.

2) Visual inspection is not a diagnosis

You can only reach a suspicion with the naked eye. Only a laboratory material analysis can provide absolute certainty. If you suspect asbestos: Do not saw, drill, grind or dry-brush!

3) Immediate measures if asbestos is suspected

• Stop work immediately
• Secure and mark the area
• Decide: have a sample tested, hire a specialist company, or choose a low-emission method in accordance with the regulations

Practical workflow for roofing companies

Step 1: Risk assessment & work plan

Before work begins, a risk assessment and a written work plan are required – TRGS 519 requires these for all activities involving asbestos.

Step 2: Competence & notification

• Many asbestos-related jobs may only be carried out by competent persons or specialist companies.
• Certain types of work require notification or reporting (e.g., using BG BAU forms).
• Practical tip: Plan the notification in good time to avoid delays.

Step 3: Secure the work area & prevent dust

• Prevent fiber release: do not throw, tip, or transfer unnecessarily
• Remove the material in one piece wherever possible
• Work with minimal dust (moisten materials, use suitable methods)
• Clearly cordon off the work area and mark it with signage

Asbestos-containing waste must be collected and packaged at the point where it is generated in a way that prevents fibers from being released.

Protective measures: Personal protective equipment (PPE) for roofers

When working with asbestos, the right PPE is mandatory. It must be appropriate for the method and risk.

Respiratory protection: Suitable asbestos mask

• Use respirators with at least a P3 filter.
• A tight seal is essential: a beard or leaks reduce the level of protection.
• Observe replacement intervals and proper storage.

Body protection: asbestos protective suit

• Disposable protective suit (particle protection), close-fitting with a hood
• Seal seams and joins with suitable tape
• Take off after work in a way that minimizes contamination and dispose of properly

Hand and eye protection

• Asbestos gloves: cut-resistant but suitable for precise work
• Asbestos safety glasses or goggles to protect against dust and particles, especially when working overhead

Hygiene & organization

• “Black/white” separation (strictly separate work clothes from street clothes)
• Follow single-use material and cleaning procedures
• Do not simply transport contaminated tools in the vehicle
• Train employees regularly and define clear site rules

Packaging & labeling: asbestos Big Bags and warning labels

Asbestos waste must be packaged tightly and securely, with clear labeling. In practice, asbestos Big Bags or panel bags are generally used.

Common packaging types

• Panel-shaped waste: Special panel bags or Big Bags in the appropriate length
• Broken pieces and smaller parts: Big Bags in suitable formats

Example from a landfill price list: Panels must be packaged to the appropriate length (e.g., 2.60 m or 3.20 m Big Bags); broken pieces require their own bag formats.

Asbestos labeling

• Use only approved asbestos bags or bags with a warning label/printing.
• Work areas and containers must be clearly labeled (to protect others and ensure clear communication about hazardous substances).
• Standard construction site Big Bags are not suitable for asbestos.

Asbestos disposal: process and important information

Waste code / classification

Asbestos-containing construction materials are generally classified under AVV 17 06 05* (hazardous waste).

Regional acceptance requirements

Each landfill or disposal company may have its own acceptance and packaging criteria (e.g., formats, maximum proportion of broken material, delivery times, advance registration, documentation). Check with the disposal company or landfill beforehand - do not deliver waste without checking first.

Transport & handover

• Seal the packaging tightly
• Do not damage or compact the waste
• Check the accompanying documents and proof required for the chosen disposal method

How much does asbestos disposal cost?

Costs vary depending on the region, disposal company, material type, packaging requirements, transport, and landfill class.

• Guidelines for 2026: €100–300 per tonne is typical; in individual cases, up to around €500/t is possible.
• Additional: Packaging costs (Big Bags are usually in the double-digit range per piece, depending on the type/format).

Costing tips for roofing companies

• How much area/material is involved (consider the weight!)
• Which bag formats are required?
• Transport/logistics (crane, container, trips)
• Regional landfill fees (e.g., differences between NRW, Bavaria, Berlin, etc.)

Video: asbestos cement in old buildings - how should asbestos be disposed of properly?

Roofify tips: How to work safely and efficiently

• Tip 1: Suspect asbestos? Stop & Check
  It's better to stop and check early. Planning, labeling, and protection come first!
• Tip 2: Don't use dust-producing tools if asbestos is suspected
  Angle grinders, cut-off saws, drills without dust extraction, and wire brushes are off-limits if asbestos is suspected.
• Tip 3: Plan disposal before work begins
  Confirm acceptance requirements, bag formats, waste codes, and delivery windows with the disposal company in advance.
• Tip 4: Communicate clearly with the team
  Create a PPE checklist (mask, protective suit, gloves, safety glasses), assign responsibilities, and hold brief toolbox talks.
• Tip 5: Don't forget the documentation
  The risk assessment, work plan, and any required notification forms should be complete and readily available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I identify asbestos on a roof?

Asbestos on a roof is often identified by gray, cement-like corrugated sheets or panels installed before 1993. However, a reliable diagnosis is only possible through laboratory analysis.

Can I remove asbestos from my roof myself as a private individual?

In Germany, many asbestos-related jobs may only be carried out by qualified specialist companies. Private individuals face a high health risk and legal restrictions.

How must asbestos be packaged and labeled?

Asbestos waste must be packaged in sealed, approved big bags or bags with a warning notice and clearly labeled.

How much does asbestos disposal cost in 2026?

Disposal usually costs between €100 and €300 per metric ton, but can cost more depending on the region and the amount of work involved. Packaging costs are additional.

What should you keep in mind when disposing of asbestos?

Before disposal, check the landfill's acceptance requirements. The waste must be properly packaged, labeled, and transported with all required documentation.

Conclusion: Asbestos can be managed with structure and care

Asbestos on the roof is no place for improvisation. If asbestos is suspected, a structured process, suitable PPE, safe packaging (e.g., an asbestos big bag), clear labeling, and properly organized disposal are essential. TRGS 519 provides the binding framework for this.

Would you like to equip your business with asbestos equipment? Simply contact us by email at sales@roofify.de or by phone at 0049 176 25 85 70 72 for a personalized quote!