Have you ever undertaken a home renovation project or cleared out your house, only to be left with a mountain of rubbish? Getting rid of all that waste can be daunting, but hiring a skip is the perfect solution. Skips come in various sizes and are ideal for disposing of a large amount of rubbish safely and efficiently.
If you’ve never hired a skip before, don’t worry! We’ve put together this beginner’s guide to help you make an informed decision about hiring a skip.
1. Determine the Skip Size You Need
The first thing you need to consider when hiring a skip is the size. Skips come in a range of sizes, typically measured in cubic yards. The most common sizes are:
- Mini skip (2-3 cubic yards): Ideal for small DIY projects or garden waste.
- Midi skip (4-5 cubic yards): Suitable for small kitchen or bathroom renovation projects.
- Builders skip (6-8 cubic yards): The most popular skip size, perfect for larger home improvement projects or construction waste.
- Large skip (10-16 cubic yards): Best for bulky waste or commercial projects.
Choosing a skip size that can accommodate all your rubbish is essential to avoid overloading. It’s generally better to overestimate the size you need, as hiring a larger skip is often more cost-effective than hiring a second one.
2. Obtain a Skip Permit if Required
When hiring a skip, you may need to obtain a skip permit from your local council if you plan on placing it on a public road.
The cost and requirements for a permit vary depending on your location, so it’s best to check with your local council before booking a skip. If you have space on your property, such as a driveway, you may not need a permit, which simplifies the process.
3. Choose a Reliable Skip Hire Company
Start by researching local skip hire companies in your area through online searches or personal recommendations. List potential companies and compare their services, prices, and customer reviews. This will help you narrow your options and find the most suitable company.
A reputable skip hire company should have the licenses and insurance to operate legally. Check their website or contact them directly to confirm they have a valid waste carrier’s license and public liability insurance.
This will ensure that they follow the proper regulations and can cover any damages caused during the delivery or collection process.
Different skip hire companies may offer a variety of skip sizes, so choosing a company that provides the right size for your needs is essential.
Consider the amount of waste you need to dispose of and consult the company’s sizing guide to determine the most appropriate skip size. Additionally, compare the prices of different companies to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Many skip hire companies are now committed to environmentally friendly waste disposal practices. Look for companies that prioritise recycling and reducing waste sent to landfill sites. This helps the environment and may result in lower disposal fees for you.
4. Prepare for the Skip Delivery
Before your skip arrives, determine the best location for it on your property. The skip should be placed on a flat, stable surface such as a driveway or private land.
Ensure the area is free of obstructions, like parked vehicles or overhanging branches, and easily accessible for the delivery vehicle. Keep in mind that placing a skip on a public road may require a permit from your local council.
On the day of your skip delivery, ensure the designated area is clear and ready for the skip to be placed. Make sure any vehicles or obstacles are removed from the area, and double-check that there are no overhanging branches or wires that could interfere with the delivery.
Be present during the delivery to guide the driver and ensure the skip is placed correctly.
5. Know What You Can and Can’t Put in the Skip
While skips are excellent for disposing of a wide range of waste materials, there are certain items that you cannot put in a skip. These include:
- Hazardous waste, such as asbestos, chemicals, or paint
- Electrical items, such as fridges or TVs
- Tyres
- Medical waste
- Plasterboard
- Gas cylinders
- Liquids
Being aware of these restrictions is essential, as disposing of prohibited items in the skip may result in additional charges or fines.
6. Fill the Skip Efficiently
When loading your skip, always begin by placing the largest and bulkiest items at the bottom. These could include furniture, construction debris, or other sizeable waste materials.
Doing so will create a stable base for the rest of the skip’s contents and ensure you utilise all available space.
If you have large items that can be broken down into smaller pieces, such as furniture or appliances, be sure to do so before placing them in the skip. This will simplify loading your skip and maximise the space available for other items.
Once you have placed all large items in the skip, look for gaps and spaces between them. Fill these gaps with smaller items like boxes, bags, or other miscellaneous waste. This technique will help you make the most of the space in your skip and prevent wasted areas.
As you load your skip, make sure to distribute the weight of the items evenly. This will help to prevent any potential tipping hazards and make it safer for the skip to be transported once it is full.
7. Arrange for Skip Collection
Most skip hire companies offer flexible collection dates, allowing you to keep the skip for as long as needed. However, it is essential to plan and have an idea of when you will be finished with the skip.
This will ensure that you do not have to pay for additional rental days or risk having your skip removed before you have completed your project.
Once you have finished your skip and are ready to collect it, contact your skip hire company to arrange a collection date. Make sure to give them at least 24-48 hours notice to ensure that they can schedule a pick-up at a time that is convenient for you.
Before your skip is collected, double-check that it is not overloaded and that all items are securely contained within the skip. Also, ensure that there is clear access for the collection vehicle, as obstructions can make it difficult or impossible for the skip to be removed.
If you have a permit for a skip on a public road, be aware that there may be a limit on how long you can keep it there. Check the terms of your permit and ensure that you arrange for collection within the allowed timeframe to avoid fines or penalties.
Conclusion
Hiring a skip can make the waste disposal process much more manageable, allowing you to focus on your project without the stress of rubbish removal. By following this beginner’s guide, you’ll be well on your way to a hassle-free skip hire experience. So, consider hiring a skip to make your life easier, whether you’re tackling a home renovation or simply clearing out clutter.
You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a domestic skip hire. Enviro Skip Hire is a family-run skip hire and aggregate company servicing Staffordshire. Check out our wide range of skip sizes and aggregates. Contact us today to get started and learn more!
