Fiducia TogetherEnvironmental permits and waste
The duty of care for waste, and the registrations that go with it.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
Businesses have a duty of care for the waste they produce: to store it safely, transfer it only to authorised carriers, and complete waste transfer notes.
Why it matters
It applies to every business, including offices. Carrying your own waste to a tip requires registration as a waste carrier.
What it looks like in practice
Keep waste transfer notes for two years and hazardous waste consignment notes for three. Separate collection requirements for recyclable materials have been extended to businesses.
What to watch out for
Fly-tipping by a carrier you paid. The duty of care means you can be liable for waste you handed to an unauthorised carrier — check the register.
Where to get proper advice
The Environment Agency's public register of carriers, free to search. Your local authority for commercial waste.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.