Scrap Metal in London & the Home Counties
Collection and responsible recycling of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metal from commercial, industrial, and construction sites across London and the Home Counties. Competitive rates are available for large volumes; all collections are carried out under our Environment Agency Waste Carrier Licence with a full Duty of Care Waste Transfer Note issued as standard. We operate exclusively on a cashless basis in full compliance with the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013.
What Does Scrap Metal Include?
- Structural steel — beams, columns, and sections
- Cast iron — radiators, pipes, and machinery
- Copper cabling, pipe, and sheet
- Aluminium — extrusions, profiles, guttering, and window frames
- Stainless steel — vessels, catering equipment, and fabrications
- Brass and bronze — valves, fittings, and ingots
- Lead — sheet, flashing, and pipework
- Mixed metals and white goods containing recoverable metal
How Our Scrap Metal Service Works
Every job follows the same documented process — from first contact to final Waste Transfer Note.
Enquiry & Rate
Tell us the metal type and approximate volume. For large volumes of high-value metals (copper, aluminium, stainless steel), we can offer a purchase rate. For smaller mixed loads, we quote a fixed collection charge.
Collection
Our vehicle arrives at your site and metal is loaded using appropriate equipment — trolleys, pallet trucks, chains, or a crane-lift for larger fabrications.
Segregation
Pre-segregated loads attract better rates. Mixed loads are separated at our depot before onward transfer. We will advise you on how to pre-sort for maximum return.
Waste Transfer Note
An official Duty of Care Waste Transfer Note is issued on collection, confirming the metal type, approximate weight, and the licensed receiving facility.
Recycling & Payment
Metal goes to a licensed shredder or smelter for full material recovery. Where a purchase rate applies, payment is made by bank transfer within five working days.
Licences & Documentation for Scrap Metal
Every WasteWize collection comes with a complete compliance paper trail — so you have full legal protection from the moment we arrive.
EA Waste Carrier Licence CBDU335711
Legally required for transportation of scrap metal as controlled waste between sites.
Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013
WasteWize is registered as a scrap metal collector and dealer. All payments are made by bank transfer — cash payments for scrap metal are illegal under the Act.
Duty of Care Waste Transfer Note
Issued on every collection under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Required for all business scrap metal disposals.
Cashless Payments Only
Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, cash payment for scrap metal is a criminal offence. All purchase payments are made by bank transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scrap Metal
Do you pay cash for scrap metal?
No. Under the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013, paying cash for scrap metal is a criminal offence for both the payer and the recipient. All purchase payments for large volumes of scrap metal are made by bank transfer within five working days. We do not handle cash transactions under any circumstances.
What is the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metal?
Ferrous metals contain iron — structural steel, cast iron, and mild steel are the most common examples. Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron — copper, aluminium, brass, lead, and stainless steel are the most common. Non-ferrous metals generally have a higher scrap value per tonne because of their material properties and the energy savings achieved through recycling versus primary production.
Do I need a waste transfer note for scrap metal?
Yes. Scrap metal is classified as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Any business disposing of scrap metal must use a registered waste carrier and retain a Duty of Care Waste Transfer Note as evidence of their duty-of-care compliance. WasteWize issues these on every commercial collection as standard.
Can you collect scrap metal from a residential property?
Yes. Homeowners with significant amounts of scrap metal — from a renovation, inherited machinery, or appliance disposal — can book a residential scrap metal collection. Our standard collection service applies; the Waste Transfer Note is provided as with any other collection.
Related Services
Building & Construction
On-site skips & waste management for construction sites with compliance docs.
Electrical Equipment
WEEE-compliant electrical recycling with transfer notes & data destruction.
Hardcore & Wood
Hardcore crushed & recycled; timber chipped for biomass. Segregated loads.
Get a Free Quote for Scrap Metal
Tell us about your job and we will provide a fixed-price quote — usually within the hour. Same-week availability across London and the Home Counties.