Asbestos in the roof - What you need to know about disposal, protection and removal

*The image was AI-generated for illustrative purposes.

Asbestos on the roof is an issue where "just a quick fix" can become very expensive and, above all, dangerous. Especially during renovations, deconstruction, repairs, penetrations, drainage, or chimney connections, asbestos-containing material can still be present today. In Germany, work on asbestos is strictly regulated, particularly by TRGS 519 (as of 2026).

In this article from Roofify, you will get a practical overview: what asbestos is, how to identify suspected cases, what protective measures are mandatory and sensible for roofing companies, and how packaging, asbestos labeling, transport, and disposal are carried out correctly.

What is asbestos and why is it dangerous?

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

The risk: When processing or breaking asbestos-containing products, microscopically fine fibers can be released. These fibers are respirable and carcinogenic. Therefore, demolition, remediation, and maintenance work (ASI work) and the disposal of asbestos are strictly regulated by TRGS 519.

Where can asbestos be found on the roof?

Typical sources of asbestos

• Asbestos cement:
  • Corrugated sheets (e.g., old "Eternit" corrugated sheets)
  • Facade and roof panels, partially artificial slate tiles
  • Ridge, verge components, ventilator hoods, molded parts
• Other possible sources:
  • Old fire protection panels / fire barriers
  • Certain fillers, adhesives, or plasters (mostly indoors, but relevant for renovations)

Note: Asbestos has been banned in Germany since 1993. Nevertheless, existing buildings, especially from the 1990s and earlier, are still potentially affected.

Identifying asbestos: How to identify suspected cases

1) Building age & appearance

• Year of construction before 1993: The risk of asbestos increases significantly.
• Typical appearance: Corrugated asbestos is often gray, cement-like, and appears weathered or "chalky."
• Plates are often stamped, riveted, or fastened with special hooks.

2) Visual inspection is not a diagnosis

With the naked eye, you can only infer a suspicion. Absolute certainty is only provided by a material analysis in a laboratory. In case of suspicion: Do not saw, drill, grind, or dry brush!

3) Immediate measures in case of suspicion

• Stop work immediately
• Secure and mark the area
• Make a decision: have a sample taken, commission a specialist company, or choose a low-emission procedure according to regulations

Practical procedure for roofing companies

Step 1: Risk assessment & work plan

Before starting work, a risk assessment and a written work plan are required – this is demanded by TRGS 519 for all activities involving asbestos.

Step 2: Expertise & notification

• Many asbestos-related jobs may only be carried out by qualified persons or specialist companies.
• For certain jobs, there is a notification or reporting obligation (e.g., with forms from BG BAU).
• Practical tip: Plan notification in good time to avoid delays.

Step 3: Secure work area & avoid dust

• Prevent fiber release: do not throw, do not tip, do not unnecessarily transfer
• Remove material as a whole as far as possible
• Work with low dust (moisten, use suitable methods)
• Clearly demarcate the work area and mark it with signage

Asbestos-containing waste must be collected and packaged at the point of origin in such a way that no fibers are released.

Protective measures: Personal protective equipment (PPE) for roofers

When working with asbestos, the correct PPE is mandatory. It must match the procedure and the risk.

Respiratory protection: Suitable asbestos mask

• Use respiratory masks with at least a P3 filter.
• Tight fit is crucial: beards or leaks reduce protective effectiveness.
• Observe change intervals and correct storage.

Body protection: Asbestos protective suit

• Disposable protective suit (particle protection), close-fitting with hood
• Seal seams and transitions with suitable adhesive tape
• After work, remove with minimal contamination and dispose of properly

Hand and eye protection

• Asbestos gloves: Cut-resistant, but suitable for precise work
• Asbestos safety glasses or full-vision goggles against dust and particles, especially during overhead work

Hygiene & Organization

• "Black/White" separation (strictly separate work and street clothes)
• Adhere to disposable material and cleaning concepts
• Do not simply transport contaminated tools in the vehicle
• Regularly instruct employees and define clear site rules

Packaging & Labeling: Asbestos Big Bags and warning notices

Asbestos waste must be packaged tightly, securely, and clearly labeled. In practice, asbestos Big Bags or slab bags are usually used.

Common types of packaging

• Panel-shaped waste: Special panel bags or Big Bags in suitable lengths
• Fragments and smaller parts: Big Bags in suitable formats

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

Asbestos labeling

• Only use approved asbestos bags or bags with warning notices/printing.
• Work area and containers must be clearly labeled (protection of other persons and clear hazardous material communication).
• Normal construction site Big Bags are not suitable for asbestos.

Asbestos disposal: Procedure and important notes

Waste code / Classification

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

Regional acceptance conditions

Every landfill or disposer can have its own acceptance and packaging criteria (e.g., formats, maximum breakage percentage, delivery times, prior registration, proof). Inquire with the disposer or landfill beforehand – do not deliver on suspicion.

Transport & handover

• Seal packaging tightly
• Do not damage or re-compact waste
• Observe accompanying documents and proof depending on the disposal route

What does asbestos disposal cost?

Costs vary depending on region, disposer, material type, packaging effort, transport, and landfill class.

• Guidelines 2026: 100-300 € per ton is common, in individual cases up to about 500 €/t is possible.
• Additionally: Costs for packaging (Big Bags usually in the two-digit range per piece, depending on type/format).

Calculation tips for roofing companies

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

Video: eternit in old buildings – how to dispose of asbestos correctly?

Roofify tips: How to proceed safely and efficiently

• Tip 1: Suspicion = Stop & Check
  Better to stop early and check. Planning, labeling, and protection have priority!
• Tip 2: No dust-generating tools in case of suspicion
  Angle grinders, cutting grinders, drills without dust extraction, and wire brushes are taboo as long as asbestos is suspected.
• Tip 3: Plan disposal before starting construction
  Clarify acceptance conditions, bag formats, waste codes, and delivery windows with the disposer in advance.
• Tip 4: Clear communication within the team
  Create a PPE list (mask, protective suit, gloves, safety glasses), define responsibilities, and conduct short "toolbox talks."
• Tip 5: Don't forget documentation
  Risk assessment, work plan, and, if applicable, notification forms should be complete and readily available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I recognize asbestos on the roof?

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

Am I allowed to remove asbestos from my roof myself as a private person?

In Germany, many asbestos jobs may only be carried out by qualified specialist companies. For private individuals, there is a high health risk and legal restrictions.

How must asbestos be packaged and labeled?

Asbestos waste must be packaged in tight, approved Big Bags or bags with warning notices and clearly labeled.

What are the costs for asbestos disposal in 2026?

Disposal costs usually range between 100 and 300 € per ton, but can be higher depending on the region and effort. Packaging costs are additional.

What needs to be considered when disposing of asbestos?

Before disposal, the acceptance conditions of the landfill should be clarified. The waste must be properly packaged, labeled, and transported with all necessary documentation.

Conclusion: Asbestos is manageable – with structure and care

Asbestos on the roof is not a matter for improvisation. In case of suspicion, a structured procedure, suitable PPE, secure packaging (e.g., asbestos Big Bag), clear labeling, and correctly organized disposal are crucial. TRGS 519 provides the binding framework for this.

Would you like to equip your company with asbestos equipment? Simply contact us by email at sales@roofify.de or by phone at 0049 176 25 85 70 72 for an individual offer!