This page explains typical UK costs, what drives the price up, and regional differences (London vs other areas) so you can budget properly before getting quotes.
First: do you definitely have asbestos cement sheets?
Many older garage roofs used corrugated asbestos cement sheets. They’re often grey and weathered, sometimes with lichen/moss. However, you shouldn’t rely on a guess — if you’re unsure, include that in your request and ask for advice on identification/testing.
HSE guidance explains that some asbestos work is non-licensed, but it still needs the right controls and safe methods. If you ask yourself a question “can I remove asbestos myself” then answer is probably no, it’s best to leave this to professionals.
Typical asbestos garage roof replacement costs in the UK
Most homeowner jobs fall into a few common scenarios: removal + disposal, then a new roof covering installed.
Guide price ranges (common homeowner scenarios)
| Job scenario | Typical range (guide) |
|---|---|
| Remove & dispose asbestos cement sheets (single garage) | ~£900–£1,500+ |
| Remove & dispose asbestos cement sheets (double garage) | ~£1,400–£2,400+ |
| Remove asbestos roof + supply & fit new roof covering | ~£1,800–£4,500+ (depending on new roof type and size) |
These “single vs double garage” starting points are consistent with specialist cost guides for asbestos garage roof removal.
Cost per m² (useful for comparing quotes)
Pricing is often driven by area plus disposal.
| Item | Typical guide range |
|---|---|
| Asbestos cement sheet removal | ~£50–£75 per m² (varies by region, access, and disposal) |
| Asbestos disposal (weight-based, where charged) | Disposal commonly priced per kg in some guides |
Important: Asbestos pricing can vary wildly by contractor setup, local disposal route, and whether the job is bundled as “remove + re-roof”.
What’s included in an asbestos garage roof quote?
A good quote should make it clear you’re not just paying for “new sheets”.
Typical quote components
| Component | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Site setup & protection | Safe access, sheeting/protection, controlled handling |
| Careful removal | Removing sheets intact where possible (minimises breakage) |
| Packaging & transport | Bagging/wrapping, loading, carrier transport |
| Hazardous waste disposal | Disposal charges and paperwork as required |
| Clean-down | Safe clean of the work area |
| New roof installation (if included) | New covering (steel/bitumen/EPDM/GRP etc.), fixings, trims |
| Guttering/drainage (optional) | Often bundled if existing gutters contribute to damp |
HSE notes some materials require licensed contractors (e.g., insulation board/lagging), while asbestos cement work is often non-licensed but still requires safe methods and competence. It’s best to get asbestos removal quotes from professional companies.
The biggest factors that change the price
1) Size, pitch and access
Single vs double garage is the big one. Steeper pitches, awkward access, or attached garages can add labour and safety time.
2) Condition of sheets
Intact sheets are typically easier (and safer) to remove than brittle, cracked sheets that break during handling.
3) What you’re replacing it with
Your replacement material can move the total cost significantly.
| Replacement choice | Typical homeowner reasons |
|---|---|
| Steel corrugated sheets | Practical and durable |
| Bitumen corrugated sheets | Budget-friendly and lightweight |
| Flat roof systems (EPDM/GRP/felt) | If converting to a flat roof design (less common; depends on structure) |
4) Disposal route in your area
Some councils offer asbestos collection services (often with limits/fees), while many homeowners use contractor disposal routes. Example: a London borough collection scheme shows per-bag/sheet charges after a free allowance, which highlights how local rules/fees can vary.
Regional price differences (London, South East, North, etc.)
As with most building work, labour and overheads tend to be higher in London and the South East. Some asbestos-focused guides also describe a noticeable London/South East premium.
Typical regional effect vs “UK average” (guide)
| Region | Typical price effect |
|---|---|
| London | +15% to +30%+ |
| South East (outside London) | +10% to +20% |
| Major cities (high demand) | Often higher than surrounding areas |
| North of England / Wales / parts of Scotland | Often lower than UK average (varies locally) |
(Exact pricing still depends heavily on access and disposal.)
Large cities & areas homeowners often compare quotes in
If you want a quick “sanity check” on pricing, these are common places where costs can run higher due to labour/demand:
London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, Liverpool, Bristol, Sheffield, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast.
Example “all-in” budgets (simple planning table)
These are rough budgeting examples that include removal + new roof covering, assuming typical access.
| Garage size | Removal + disposal | New roof covering install | Budget range (guide) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single garage | £900–£1,500 | £800–£1,800 | £1,700–£3,300 |
| Double garage | £1,400–£2,400 | £1,000–£2,500 | £2,400–£4,900 |
The “removal” ranges align with asbestos garage roof removal cost guides and homeowner-facing sources that commonly quote around £1,000–£3,000 depending on job size and complexity.
How to get accurate quotes (and avoid surprises)
Copy/paste this into your enquiry:
- Postcode (regional pricing matters)
- Single or double garage (or rough length × width)
- Roof type: “corrugated cement sheets (possibly asbestos)” if unsure
- Condition: intact vs cracked/brittle, any visible breakage
- Access notes: tight driveway, attached garage, height issues
- Whether you want removal only or removal + new roof fitted
- Your preferred replacement material (or ask for options)
FAQs
Do I have to remove an asbestos garage roof?
Not always. If asbestos cement is in good condition and not being disturbed, it can sometimes be left alone and managed. Many homeowners replace it when it leaks or during upgrades.
Do I need a licensed asbestos contractor?
Some asbestos materials require licensed contractors (like asbestos insulating board, lagging, sprayed coatings). Asbestos cement work is often non-licensed, but still needs safe controls and competence.
Why is asbestos garage roof removal expensive?
You’re paying for controlled removal, packaging, hazardous waste transport/disposal, and compliance — not just labour.
Can I dispose of asbestos sheets through the council?
Some councils offer collection or tip arrangements with limits/fees, but rules vary a lot by area. Check your local council policy or use a contractor who handles disposal.