The go-to-guide for skip hire beginners
Hiring a skip can be an intimidating experience if you have never done it before, there are so many things you must think about that nobody tells you. For instance, what is a cubic yard? How do I get a skip permit – do I even need one?
You will have many questions and that is why we wanted to make an article for the skip hire beginners. In this article we have provided expert answers for some of the most common concerns and questions that our new customers have.
- What can’t I put in a skip?
- Asbestos*
- Batteries
- Medicinal waste including syringes and biohazard products
- Electrical appliances and equipment
- Paint cans/paint
- Fridges, freezers and air con unit
- Gas canisters and gas bottles
- TVs
- Tyres*
- Oil*, petrol and diesel
- Plasterboard
- Liquids
- Hazardous and toxic materials*
- Fluorescent tubes
- Mattresses
- Upholstered Furniture – Including Office Chairs
As convenient as it is to put these in your skip without thinking twice, be aware that you can be charged and have the prohibited items returned to you.
It is always advised that you keep an eye on your skip if it is in an accessible and public area as people can put their rubbish in your skip. If this happens, you will unfortunately be responsible for the skips content.
However, you can have the option to hire lockable skips so you have peace of mind that this won’t happen.
- Selecting the Right Skip Size
Determining the correct skip size depends on the volume of waste you anticipate generating and the available space at your location. Seeking advice from a skip hire company can help you make an informed choice, preventing the need for additional collections or wasting space.
- Understanding the Cost of Skip Hire
The cost of skip hire can vary significantly based on factors such as skip size, location, the necessity of a skip permit, and the duration of the rental. To obtain an accurate cost estimate, it’s advisable to request a personalized quote from your chosen skip hire company.
- Skip Permits: What Are They, and Do You Need One?
If your skip needs to be placed on a public road or highway, you will typically require a skip permit. These permits are issued by local councils, and some areas may also mandate a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) suspension if certain parking restrictions apply.
- Understanding CPZ Suspensions
A Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) suspension is an additional fee added to a skip permit when your skip placement falls within an area with specific parking restrictions, such as yellow lines or resident parking spaces.
- Adherence to Safety Regulations
Depending on your location, local councils may have safety regulations in place for skip placement. These rules may include covering the skip, using safety lights, and placing cones to mark its location. Failing to comply with these rules can result in fines.
- Skip Loading Assistance
It’s important to note that skip hire typically covers the delivery and removal of the skip itself; it does not include labor for loading waste into the skip. If you require assistance with loading, consider alternative options such as a man and van service.
- Wait and Load Services
A “wait and load” skip service is a convenient choice for those with minimal waste or limited access for a skip. You simply need to have your waste ready in skip bags. When the skip lorry arrives, it will wait while you load the waste. If needed, you can opt for a man and van service to assist with loading.
- Skip Hire Duration
Skip hire typically includes a standard two-week rental period, but you can request longer or shorter durations. Communicate your preferences with the skip hire company, ideally a few days in advance, to allow them ample time to make arrangements.
- Access Requirements for Skip Delivery
Keep in mind that most skips are delivered via HGV lorries, which are wider than typical cars. Ensure there is sufficient space for the lorry to access your designated location, both during delivery and pickup. It’s a good practice to measure available space and consult your skip hire company to confirm accessibility.
- Weight Restrictions
While weight restrictions are not typically an issue for domestic skip hire, they can be relevant for those disposing of heavy materials, such as soil, bricks, and rubble. Be sure to inquire about weight restrictions for your chosen skip.
- Understanding “Level Loaded”
When hiring a skip, you’ll often hear the term “level loaded.” This refers to the maximum height to which waste can be filled in the skip. Exceeding this height may result in your skip being refused collection or requiring you to remove excess waste. To avoid such complications, follow the level loading guidelines.
- Protecting Your Driveway
Skips are substantial metal containers that can potentially damage certain types of driveways, such as soft tarmac, block paving, or resin. To safeguard your driveway, consider placing large planks of wood or scaffolding planks underneath the skip. Discuss driveway protection options with your chosen skip provider.
- Mixed Waste vs. Inert Waste Skips
Different skips are designated for various types of waste. For homeowners, a mixed waste skip is usually suitable as it accommodates a wide range of waste types. However, if you have inert waste like soil, concrete, rubble, or cement, you’ll need an inert waste skip. Communicate the type of waste you’ll be disposing of to your skip hire company for guidance.
- The Journey of Collected Waste
Once your skip is collected, the waste is transported to a nearby licensed commercial waste station. At this facility, the waste is sorted into recyclable, biodegradable, and non-recyclable categories. The waste is then processed accordingly, which may involve incineration, energy generation, recycling, or disposal in a landfill.
If you have additional questions about skip hire, don’t hesitate to reach out to WasteSURE skip hire and contact us for professional guidance. We’re here to ensure your skip hire experience is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
