FENSA warns of hidden risks behind unlicensed waste collectors

FENSA is urging installers to think carefully about how window and door waste is removed from site, warning that use of unlicensed “man in a van” waste collectors can expose businesses to legal, financial, and reputational risk.

The warning follows recent reports highlighting hundreds of illegal waste sites operating across England, many linked to unlicensed waste carriers and fly-tipping activity that continues to damage local environments and communities.

As sustainability and compliance expectations increase across the construction and home improvement sectors, installers are under greater scrutiny than ever to demonstrate responsible waste handling.

However, informal waste collectors, often offering quick and low-cost removal, are still encountered across parts of the industry.

According to FENSA, many of these operators are not registered waste carriers and fail to provide legally required Waste Transfer Notes. In some cases, waste collected in this way is illegally dumped, contributing to fly-tipping and environmental damage across local communities.

Crucially, responsibility for waste does not end once it leaves site.

If materials are traced back, installers have a legal duty of care and can still be held accountable, even if disposal was outsourced.

Sam Davies, Technical Manager at FENSA, said the issue is often driven by accessibility rather than intent.

He said: “Most installers are trying to do the right thing. The problem is that compliant recycling hasn’t always been easy or affordable to access. That’s exactly what leaves space for unlicensed operators to step in.”

To address this, FENSA has introduced its free Recycling Scheme, available exclusively to FENSA installers.

The scheme provides access to compliant recycling routes nationwide for waste generated by replacement window and door projects.

Installers using the scheme benefit from verified waste handling, compliant Waste Transfer Notes provided with every collection, and clear reporting that evidence material recycled and diverted from landfill – all without increasing business costs.

By removing financial and practical barriers, FENSA aims to support installers in choosing compliant disposal routes while protecting their businesses, their reputation, and the environment.

Access to the FENSA recycling scheme is managed through the FENSA Installers Portal, where installers can request collections via the benefits page to ensure waste is collected, tracked, and processed through approved recycling partners.

For more information about the FENSA Recycling Scheme, and how it can support your business’ growth, please visit: www.fensa.org.uk