Rachel writes practical guides on skip hire, waste removal, and responsible disposal in the UK. She explains what you can legally put in a skip, how to handle restricted waste, and what it really costs. Her goal is to give clear, up-to-date advice so households and trades stay compliant and avoid fines.
Reviewed by: Skip Hire Team Waste Compliance Manager | Upper Tier Waste Broker Licence CBDU596771
When you’re renovating a house, working on an extension, or managing a commercial build, construction waste quickly stacks up. Strict regulations are in place for good reason, and handling your waste properly is crucial:
Understanding what’s allowed and, more importantly, separating your waste is the key to legal compliance and cost control.
Not Accepted (Requires Specialist Handling)
Always check with your skip provider if unsure about any item.
Know roughly how much waste you’ll end up with. Will it fill one 8-yard skip? Or might you benefit from a larger 12– or 20-yard builder skip? Getting sizing right helps avoid paying for spare space or the cost of hiring multiple skips.
Look for a local company with a helpful team, transparent pricing, and good recycling practices. A trusted provider will advise on the correct skip size, explain what can be placed in it, and even assist with permit applications.
If you need the skip on the public highway or pavement, you’ll likely need a permit from your local council. (Internal Link to Skip Permits Page) A reputable local skip provider can handle the application for you, but please allow up to 7 working days.
Start with heavy items like bricks and rubble at the bottom, then layer lighter waste on top. Do not overfill! The load should sit below the rim for safety and collection compliance.
This is the final, essential step for legal compliance. Your skip provider is legally required to issue a WTN (or Consignment Note for hazardous waste), which must be kept for two years. This is your proof of compliance under the Duty of Care.
A homeowner cleared out an old bathroom (tiles, pipes, plasterboard.) Using a 4-yard skip and labelling the plasterboard separately saved them time, kept the load clean, and ensured proper recycling.
A builder cleared a garage roof, disposing of slate and decking wood. They chose a 12-yard skip, loaded brick and heavy debris first, then topped with lighter wood and cardboard, meeting weight limits and avoiding overfill fees.
Yes, if it’s placed on roads, pavements, or public areas. Your skip hire company can usually handle this.
You’ll either need to arrange a separate disposal for the restricted items or book a replacement skip.
No. That must be disposed of via specialist routes.
Factor in the volume and weight of your waste. Renovation/refurb jobs often need 8 yard skips and 12 yard skips; cleaner jobs or minor demolitions sometimes fit into 4–6 yard skips.
Disposing of construction waste correctly protects the environment, keeps your site safe, and ensures you’re working within legal standards. Skip hire offers an efficient and environmentally responsible solution. By choosing the right skip size, separating regulated waste, and using a trusted provider, you keep things simple, compliant, and clean.
Ready to book? We offer a full range of skip sizes, helpful local advice, fast delivery, and transparent pricing. Let us help make your construction cleanup easy and lawful.
