Skip Hire can be an efficient solution for handling waste from home renovations, garden clearances, and large-scale clean-ups. Before diving in and booking the first skip you come across, it’s essential to understand the nuances involved to make an informed decision. Not only will this save you time and money, but it will also ensure that your waste disposal is environmentally responsible and complies with local regulations.
In this guide, we’ll cover ten crucial things you should know before hiring a skip, from size considerations to understanding the associated rules and regulations.
1. Determine the Right Size
Skips come in various sizes, from small 2-yard mini skips to massive 40-yard roll-on roll-off containers. To determine the right size:
- Assess your waste: If you’re clearing out a small room, a mini or midi skip might suffice. But for larger projects like home renovations, you’ll need a builder’s skip or larger.
- Consider overfill penalties: It’s vital not to overfill a skip. If you’re unsure about the quantity of waste, it’s better to hire a slightly bigger skip to avoid additional charges.
2. Know What You Can and Cannot Throw into a Skip
It’s a common misconception that you can dispose of anything in a skip. There are restrictions on certain items:
- Prohibited items include refrigerators, tyres, batteries, chemicals, asbestos, paint cans, and fluorescent tubes.
- Potentially acceptable items, like mattresses or electrical items, may incur additional fees.
- Always consult with your skip provider regarding the specific items you intend to dispose of.
3. Understand Skip Permit Requirements
If you don’t have space on your property and need to place the skip on public land, such as a road, you’ll require a skip permit from your local council. Remember:
- Application times can vary, but it’s best to apply at least a few days before you need the skip.
- Fees differ from one council to another.
- Duration: Most permits last for two weeks, but extensions can be arranged for an additional fee.
4. Think About Accessibility
Ensure that the location you choose for the skip is easily accessible for the delivery vehicle:
- Width: Lorry access is essential, so check that your driveway or road is wide enough.
- Height: Low-hanging trees or cables can hinder skip placement.
- Stability: The surface should be stable, ensuring the skip doesn’t sink or tip.
5. Be Environmentally Conscious
It’s essential to opt for a skip hire company that follows environmentally friendly practices:
- Recycling: Ask about their recycling processes. The best firms recycle up to 90% of the collected waste.
- Waste disposal: Ensure they adhere to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations and other necessary guidelines.
6. Compare Quotes and Check Reviews
Skip hire prices can vary significantly based on size, duration, and location:
- Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Read reviews online to learn about others’ experiences with potential skip hire companies.
7. Clarify Duration and Overstay Fees
Most skip hire durations are for one to two weeks, but you can often extend this for a fee. However:
- If you overstay without notifying the company, you may face additional charges.
- Always clarify the duration and potential overstay fees upfront.
8. Protect Your Property
While placing a skip, especially on a driveway, there’s potential for damage:
- Consider laying wooden boards to distribute the skip’s weight.
- Ensure the skip doesn’t block any essential pathways or utilities.
9. Fill the Skip Efficiently
An efficiently filled skip maximises space:
- Break down items: Dismantle furniture or break up large items.
- Fill with flat items first: Lay items like doors or boards at the bottom.
- Distribute weight: Avoid creating pressure points that can damage the skip or your property.
10. Be Aware of “Wait and Load” Services
If you’re in a hurry or don’t have space or permissions for a skip, many companies offer a “wait and load” service:
- The skip is delivered, and you fill it immediately.
- The company waits for an hour or so and then takes it away.
- It’s efficient but requires you to have your waste ready for disposal.
Hire a skip With Williams a Williams
Hiring a skip is a convenient solution for waste disposal, but understanding the intricacies ensures a hassle-free experience. By being informed, you can make a cost-effective and environmentally responsible decision.
Are you ready to hire a skip? Ensure you choose a reliable and responsible provider. You can find out more information on our skip hire page or you can book online now.
Skip Hire Locations We Cover
As a leading provider of skip hire services in North West Wales, we provide the following locations with skip hire services:
Skip Hire Bala | Skip Hire Barmouth | Skip Hire Harlech | Skip Hire Pwllheli | Skip Hire Bangor | Skip Hire Blaenau Ffestiniog | Skip Hire Caernarfon | Skip Hire Dolgellau | Skip Hire Tywyn | Skip Hire Porthmadog
