Vital Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Skip

What size skip do I need?

When it comes to disposing of large amounts of waste, hiring a skip is one of the best solutions. Skips are suitable for many tasks, from garages and gardens to construction, home renovation, and office clear-outs. But before hiring a skip, it's essential to take its size, duration of hire, safety requirements, and any permit regulations into account. Read on to learn some of the vital questions you should ask before hiring a skip.

The size of the skip is an important factor to consider when hiring one. Different sizes of skips will give different levels of capacity – typically ranging from 3 yards to 16 yards. To accurately assess the size of skip you'll need for the job, you should work out the volume, weight, and size of the waste you plan to dispose of. This will allow you to find the most cost-effective size for your skip hire. There are calculators available online that can help you determine the size of skip you need. 

How long can I hire a skip for?

Aside from the size of the skip, you should also consider how long you'd like to hire it for. Most companies offer flexible rental periods between 1-14 days, depending on the size of the skip and the waste disposal requirement. Before hiring a skip, it's important to consider exactly how long you need it so that you don't end up paying more than you bargained for.

Need assistance finding skip hire near you?

Get a Quote

How much space does the truck need?

Before the delivery of a skip, you must ensure that the location where you want to place it can accommodate the truck’s size. This is particularly relevant if you live in a built-up area or on a narrow road where access could be limited. When calculating the dimensions of the truck, you should keep in mind that the width, height, and length of the truck may vary due to the size of the skip.  

Which safety rules need to be followed?

When hiring a skip, certain safety rules should be followed to avoid accidents and injury. You should make sure that children and animals are kept away from the skip, and familiarise yourself with the skip hire company’s safety guidelines. It's also important to ensure that the skip has been placed in a secure location, such as a driveway or a paved area. If the skip is placed in an unsafe area, you may be liable for any damage caused.

Do I need a skip permit?

In some cases, you will need to obtain a skip permit from the local council in order to hire a skip. A permit will generally be required if the skip is placed on a public highway or a road. Permit regulations vary across different areas, so contact your local council to find out what their restrictions are. The cost of a permit typically ranges between £20 and £100, and you may have to pay an extra fee for any additional days that you hire the skip for. 
        
Hiring a skip is a convenient way of getting rid of large amounts of waste in a safe and efficient manner. By asking these vital questions before hiring a skip, you can enjoy a stress-free skip-hire experience that meets all your disposal requirements.

In this article: