Hiring a skip can make any home or garden project far easier by giving you a simple way to manage waste. Whether you’re clearing out a house, renovating a kitchen, or tackling a landscaping job, a skip can save you time and effort. However, before you go ahead and book one, it’s important to understand the key details to avoid extra charges or potential issues. Here are ten essential things to keep in mind before hiring a skip.
1. Know What Size Skip You Need
Skips come in a variety of sizes, from small 2-yard mini skips ideal for garden waste to larger 8-yard builder’s skips suitable for construction debris. Choosing the right size is crucial. A skip that’s too small may require you to order another, while an oversized one could waste money and space. If you’re unsure, most skip hire companies will offer guidance. As a general rule, it’s better to overestimate than find yourself short on space slightly.
2. Check What Can and Can’t Go in a Skip
You can’t throw just anything into a skip. While most household waste, garden rubbish, and building materials are allowed, some items are strictly prohibited. These include electrical goods, paint tins, tyres, asbestos, gas cylinders, and batteries. Always ask your skip provider for a full list of what’s accepted. Adding restricted items can lead to additional fees or the refusal to collect the skip.
3. You May Need a Permit
If the skip will be placed on a public road or pavement rather than private land, a permit is likely required. Your local council issues this and usually organised by the skip hire company on your behalf. Permit costs and rules vary depending on your local authority, and approval can take a couple of days, so plan accordingly.
4. Consider Where the Skip Will Be Placed
Think about where the skip will go. If you have private land, such as a driveway, this is often the simplest option. Ensure there is enough space for the lorry to deliver and collect the skip safely. For skips placed on roads, safety measures like reflective markers or lights may be needed, especially overnight. It’s also worth protecting any tarmac or paving slabs to avoid damage.
5. Be Aware of Weight Limits
Each skip has a maximum weight it can hold, which varies depending on the size and type. Overloading a skip can lead to extra charges or the company refusing to collect it. Be especially careful with heavy materials like soil, rubble, or concrete. These should be distributed evenly and may require a specific type of skip.
6. Skip Hire Isn’t Always Instant
While some companies offer next-day delivery, this isn’t always guaranteed, particularly during busy periods. Booking in advance is wise, especially if you also need a permit. Giving the hire company a clear idea of when you’ll need the skip, and how long you’ll need it for, helps ensure a smooth process from start to finish.
7. Watch Out for Hidden Fees
It’s always worth checking the small print before agreeing to anything. Some skip hire services may include extra fees for things like permits, overweight skips, or extended hire periods. Ask for a full breakdown of costs in advance so there are no surprises later on.
8. Skips Have Time Limits
Most standard skip hires last between one to two weeks, although this varies between companies. If you need the skip for longer, it’s best to arrange this in advance to avoid additional charges. On the other hand, if your project finishes early, you can usually request collection sooner than planned.
9. Ensure the Company Is Licensed and Reputable
Using a licensed waste carrier is essential. Reputable skip hire companies will be registered with the Environment Agency and follow the proper guidelines for waste disposal. Hiring from an unlicensed operator increases the risk of fly-tipping, which could lead to hefty fines for you, even if you were unaware.
10. Think About Recycling and Environmental Impact
More and more skip companies now sort waste at recycling centres to reduce landfill use. It’s worth asking how much of your waste will be recycled. Choosing a company with good recycling practices helps you do your bit for the environment while clearing out your space.
Hiring a skip can be a real time-saver during any major clean-up or renovation, but it pays to plan ahead. By understanding what’s involved and knowing what to expect, you can avoid unnecessary costs, stay on the right side of the law, and make the process as smooth as possible.
Ready to hire a skip with confidence? Use these ten tips to ensure your experience is straightforward, legal, and hassle-free.