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What Can’t Be Put In A Skip For A Home Renovation Project?

If you’re asking yourself, ‘What can’t be put in a skip for a home renovation project?’, then this blog is for you.

Making your house a home can be an exciting and rewarding process. Not only can it transform your living space, but it can also increase the value of your property. With all home renovation projects, the secret to a successful project lies within the planning stage, and this includes deciding how to dispose of the inevitable amount of waste produced.

At Morley Skips, we offer a range of skip hire options from 2-14 yards that can help homeowners to manage renovation waste effectively and ensure a more organised project from start to finish. 

Image of inside a home renovation for the blog What Can’t Be Put In A Skip For A Home Renovation Project?

Do Not Put These Items In A Skip

Before delving into the specifics, it’s important to understand the regulations governing household waste disposal. Certain materials that can seem like harmless rubbish can actually be classified as hazardous and require special disposal methods. Placing these items in a general waste skip could not only lead to extra costs, but also extreme environmental issues such as soil pollution and water contamination. 

The following items should never be placed in a skip unless you’ve arranged for a specialised container which is equipped for hazardous waste. If you’re unsure whether you have an item that might be considered one of the below, it’s always best to check.  

1. Asbestos 

Asbestos is a hazardous material that poses significant health risks. It must be disposed of separately and should never be placed in a general waste skip. Morley Skips offers dedicated asbestos disposal services to ensure safe and compliant handling. 

2. Electrical Appliances 

Items such as fridges, freezers, and other electrical appliances contain components that require specialised disposal methods. 

3. Gas Bottles and Cylinders 

Gas bottles, even when empty, can be hazardous due to residual pressure and flammable contents. They pose explosion risks and should never be placed in a skip. 

4. Tyres 

Tyres are not accepted in skips because they are difficult to process and recycle through standard waste management systems. 

5. Upholstered Furniture 

Recent regulations have restricted the disposal of upholstered furniture in general waste due to the presence of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). This includes items like sofas, mattresses, armchairs, and cushions. These materials require separate collection and disposal methods. 

6. Oil, Fuel, Paints and Solvents 

Liquids such as paint, oil, fuel, and other chemicals are prohibited in skips due to the risk of spillage, resulting in environmental contamination. These substances require specialised containers to ensure safe disposal. 

8. Batteries 

Batteries contain heavy metals that are harmful if leaked.  

9. Fluorescent Tubes 

Fluorescent tubes, such as those used for lighting and sunbeds, contain mercury, which is toxic.  

10. Clinical Waste 

Medical waste, even within a domestic capacity, cannot be put into a skip.  

Alternative Options For Prohibited Items 

For items that can’t be placed into a skip, Morley Skips offers specialised services designed for the safe disposal of hazardous waste, including asbestos, Japanese Knotweed, fuel spillages and chemicals. 

Skip Bags

Skip bags are another convenient and flexible alternative for waste disposal, especially for smaller projects or when space is limited. However, it’s essential to know that the above prohibited items are also cannot be disposed of in skip bags. At Morley Skips, we understand that it can sometimes be confusing, which is why we take the stress out of waste removal by prioritising safety, environmental responsibility, and compliance with UK regulations. If you’re ever unsure, our friendly team are always on hand to advise.   

Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO) Containers

For larger renovation projects, roll-on roll-off (RORO) containers are an efficient (and possibly more cost-effective) waste management option. At Morley Skips, we offer RORO containers in 20-yard and 40-yard sizes, which can accommodate more substantial volumes of waste. It’s worth noting, however, that despite their size, RORO skips are subject to the same restrictions as standard skips. Hazardous materials, electrical appliances, and other prohibited items must not be placed in these containers unless you have arranged one specially with us. 

Tips For Skips

  • Segregate Waste: Keep prohibited items separate from general waste. 
  • Do Not Overfill: Ensure the skip is filled to the recommended level to avoid collection issues. 
  • Accessibility: Things such as ensuring that the skip is placed in an area accessible for collection vehicles and you have secured a permit if required. Find out more about preparing for the arrival of your skip here
  • Consult with Morley Skips: If unsure about any item, contact our team for guidance. 

Image of skip for skip hire in Essex for the blog What Can’t Be Put In A Skip For A Home Renovation Project?

Choose Morley Skips For Waste Removal

By adhering to the above guidelines, you can rest easy in the knowledge that there won’t be any unexpected surprises when it comes to collection date. However, for any waste disposal needs or questions, Morley Skips is here to assist you.  

Why choose us? 

  • Easy booking process 
  • Next-day delivery available 
  • Friendly advice and guidance from an experienced team 
  • Over 30 years in waste removal 
  • Large fleet of high-spec vehicles 

For more information, please contact the Morley Skips team on 01621 815 287 or simply book a skip online here

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