Skip hire is an essential service for many households and businesses in the UK, especially when it comes to managing waste during renovations, clear-outs, or large-scale projects. One of the most common questions people ask when hiring a skip is, “How high can a skip be filled?” This blog post aims to answer that question and provide a comprehensive guide to Ormskirk skip hire services.
Understanding Skip Hire Regulations
In the United Kingdom, there are specific regulations regarding how high a skip can be filled. These rules are designed to ensure safety during transportation and prevent waste from falling onto roads or pavements.
The general rule of thumb is that you should not fill your skip above the height of its sides. This means that all waste should be contained within the skip’s dimensions without any items protruding over the top or sides. Overfilling your skip can lead to additional charges from your Ormskirk skip hire company or even refusal to collect the skip until it’s correctly filled.
Why You Shouldn’t Overfill Your Skip
There are several reasons why you shouldn’t overfill your hired skip:
1. Safety: Overfilled skips pose a significant risk during transportation. If waste items fall out onto roads or pavements, they could cause accidents or injuries.
2. Legal Compliance: The Road Traffic Act stipulates that all loads carried by vehicles on roads must be secure and not likely to cause danger to others. Overfilled skips breach this law.
3. Cost Implications: If your Ormskirk skip hire company deems your skip as overfilled, they may charge extra fees for handling and processing.
Choosing the Right Size of Skip
One way to avoid overfilling is by choosing the right size of skip for your project needs. Skips come in various sizes, typically ranging from 2-yard mini skips to 40-yard roll-on/roll-off skips. The size you need will depend on the amount of waste you expect to generate.
A mini or midi skip (2-4 yards) should suffice for small projects like garden clearances or minor home renovations. For larger projects like full house clearances or construction work, you might need a builder’s skip (6-8 yards) or even a large skip (10-14 yards). If you’re unsure about the size you need, your Ormskirk skip hire company can provide guidance based on their experience.
Maximising Your Skip Space
To get the most out of your hired skip and avoid overfilling, consider these tips:
1. Break Down Bulkier Items: If possible, dismantle furniture or break down larger items into smaller pieces. This allows them to fit better in the skip and leaves less empty space.
2. Fill Skips Strategically: Start by placing flat items at the bottom of the skip, followed by heavier items. Fill any gaps with smaller pieces of waste.
3. Don’t Throw Prohibited Items: Due to environmental regulations and recycling policies, certain items are not allowed in skips. These include hazardous materials like asbestos, batteries, tyres, and certain electrical appliances.
In conclusion, when using Ormskirk skip hire services or any other UK-based company, remember that your skip should not be filled above its sides for safety and legal reasons. Always choose the right size of skip for your needs and fill it strategically to maximise space.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your waste disposal process is smooth and hassle-free while also adhering to UK regulations. Remember that responsible waste management benefits us individually and contributes significantly towards a cleaner and safer environment for all.
Wigan Skip Hire 01942 417456
Southport Skip Hire 01704 779345
Skelmersdale Skip Hire 01695 769123
Bamber Bridge Skip Hire 01772 364 399
Chorley Skip Hire 01257 752399
Ormskirk Skip Hire 01704 779345
Leyland Skip Hire 01772 364399
