Do plumbers need waste transfer notes?

Yes. If you remove waste from a customer’s property — old boilers, pipework, insulation, or any other controlled waste — you are legally required to issue a waste transfer note for every load.

What EWC code should I use for an old boiler?

A discarded boiler or hot water cylinder typically falls under 16 02 14 (discarded equipment other than those mentioned in 16 02 09 to 16 02 13). If it is a gas appliance, 20 01 36 (discarded electrical and electronic equipment) may also apply. QWTN’s EWC lookup helps you choose correctly.

What about asbestos around old pipework?

Asbestos is hazardous waste and requires a consignment note, not a standard WTN. If you suspect asbestos, stop work and arrange for a licensed asbestos removal contractor. Never transport asbestos yourself without proper licensing.

Plumbers & Heating Engineers

Waste Transfer Notes for Plumbers & Heating Engineers

Old boilers, copper pipe, insulation, and sometimes asbestos — plumbers produce more controlled waste than they realise. Every load you take to the tip or hand to a carrier needs a waste transfer note. QWTN makes it quick, compliant, and free to start.

Create a Free WTN →See Pricing

Sound familiar?

The paperwork pain

You didn’t know you needed a WTN

Most plumbers carry waste in their van every day without realising they legally need a waste transfer note for each load.

Asbestos and hazardous materials

Lagging on old pipework, gaskets, and flue liners can contain asbestos. Hazardous waste has stricter documentation rules.

Which EWC code for a boiler?

Is a scrapped boiler 16 02 14 or 20 01 36? Picking the wrong code makes your note non-compliant.

Fines you can’t afford

Sole traders and small firms face the same fines as big companies — up to £50,000 for missing or incorrect notes.

How QWTN helps

Built for Plumbers

Works on Your Phone

Create a WTN between jobs, straight from your van. No laptop, no printer.

EWC Code Lookup

Type "copper pipe" or "boiler" and find the right code instantly.

Free Tier Available

Create and download waste transfer notes free, no account required for one-off notes.

Carrier Verification

Check the scrap merchant or waste carrier is EA-registered before handing over your waste.

Templates for Repeat Jobs

Save your regular waste types — copper, boilers, insulation — and reuse them on the next job.

2-Year Cloud Storage

Every note stored securely. Pull up any record instantly if the EA comes knocking.

Quick reference

Common EWC Codes

17 04 01Copper, bronze, brass

17 06 04Insulation materials (not containing asbestos)

20 01 36Discarded electrical and electronic equipment

16 02 14Discarded equipment (boilers, cylinders)

See all plumbers & heating engineers EWC codes

Simple pricing

Plans that fit your operation

Recommended

Solo

£12/month

One-person operations

Carrier

£29/month

Teams up to 5

Fleet

£69/month

Unlimited team

All plans include a free trial. One-off notes are always free, no account needed.

Learn more

Small Business Guide to Waste Duty of Care (UK)

Even the smallest UK business has a legal duty of care for its waste. This guide explains what small businesses must do, common misconceptions, and the simplest way to stay compliant.

UK Duty of Care for Waste: What Every Business Must Know

Every UK business that produces, carries, or disposes of controlled waste has a legal duty of care. This guide explains your obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Common questions

FAQ

You carry waste every day. Make sure you’re covered.

Create your first compliant waste transfer note in 60 seconds — free.

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No sign-up needed for one-off notes · 2-year cloud storage · DEFRA 2026 ready