How to Dispose of Plasterboard in a Skip: UK Law & Segregation Rules

You can put plasterboard in a skip, but it must be kept 100% separate from all other waste to comply with the UK Landfill Directive. Plasterboard (classified under EWC Code 17 08 02) contains gypsum, which generates toxic hydrogen sulphide gas when mixed with water or biodegradable waste. We offer separate skips to ensure compliance with legal requirements and avoid fines.
Picture of By Rachel.J
By Rachel.J

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

Plasterboard Disposal Why You Should Avoid Putting It in Skips
Table of Contents

Why Plasterboard Is Regulated Waste

Plasterboard might seem harmless, right? It’s just a bit of drywall. But there’s more to it. Plasterboard actually contains a mineral called gypsum, which produces a harmful gas (hydrogen sulphide) when broken down in landfills. This gas is not only harmful to people but also to the environment.

This harmful reaction is why the UK enforces the Landfill Directive, specifically stating that gypsum-based waste (Plasterboard) cannot be co-disposed with biodegradable waste. Here are the Key points you need to know:

  • It’s considered regulated waste under UK environmental laws.

  • It must be kept separate from general and mixed waste.

  • Mixing it in your skip the wrong way could lead to fines or collection issues.

Can You Put Plasterboard in a Skip? (The Separation Rule)

Yes, you can, but only if you follow the golden rule: Keep it dry and keep it 100% separate.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to stay compliant with UK waste regulations:

  • No Mixing: Keep it separate from all other waste. That means absolutely no mixing with general rubbish, soil, garden waste, or anything wet.
  • Bag or Wrap it Up: This helps prevent contamination and makes it easier for waste handlers to identify and process it.
  • Tell Your Skip Provider: Not all skip services accept plasterboard unless it’s declared upfront (we do, but we need to know it’s coming).

What Do the Official Guidelines Say? (Documentation & EWC)

When it comes to disposing of plasterboard, there are strict rules laid out by the Environment Agency:

  • Segregation: Plasterboard must always be kept separate from other waste types.
  • EWC Code: Plasterboard is classified under the EWC (European Waste Catalogue) Code 17 08 02.
  • Weight Limits: Depending on the size of your skip and the amount of plasterboard you’re loading, there may be restrictions. 
  • Paperwork: Especially for larger volumes from commercial or construction projects, proper documentation is always required. For commercial jobs, a Waste Transfer Note must prove that the waste (under EWC 17 08 02) was segregated and disposed of correctly. 

How We Make Plasterboard Disposal Simple

We get it! Compliance can be confusing. That’s why we have made plasterboard disposal as easy as possible:

  • Dedicated Bags: We offer dedicated, clearly labelled Plasterboard Skip Bags (for smaller volumes) that are designed to keep the gypsum separate from all other skip waste. This is the simplest way to comply.
  • Separate Skips: Need a separate skip just for plasterboard? No problem. We’ll arrange for one to be delivered just for that waste (ideal for medium-to-large renovations).
  • Special Collection: Tackling a bigger job? We can also organise a special collection purely for plasterboard.

The bottom line? Just let us know what you’re dealing with when you book, and we’ll take care of the rest.

What Happens if You Get It Wrong?

It’s tempting to throw everything into one skip, but when it comes to plasterboard, non-compliance increases your workload and costs significantly:

  • Fines: Substantial fines from your local council and the Environment Agency for breaching the Landfill Regulations.
  • Refusal: Delays or even refusal when it’s time for collection, which means you have to manually unload the mixed waste to separate the plasterboard.
  • Extra Charges: Significant extra charges from the waste processing facilities for manual separation and specialist disposal.

The truth is, getting it right from the start saves you time, money, and stress.

FAQs

Can I mix plasterboard with rubble or other construction waste?

No, plasterboard needs to be kept separate, even from things like bricks or concrete. This is the main legal requirement.

Do I need a separate skip just for plasterboard?

Not always. For domestic volumes, using our dedicated Plasterboard Skip Bags within your main skip is often sufficient, provided you tell us in advance. For large commercial volumes, a separate skip is usually recommended.

What is EWC Code 17 08 02?

This is the specific code used on official documentation (Waste Transfer Notes) to identify plasterboard waste, ensuring it goes to a licensed facility that can handle gypsum-based materials compliantly.

Let’s Get It Done Properly

Disposing of plasterboard might sound like a hassle, but with the right setup and our dedicated service, it’s quick and easy. We’ll help you stay compliant, avoid the fines, and get the job done right.

Need a skip with plasterboard disposal options? Book online today! Fast, friendly service wherever you are.

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