Most house clearance companies will remove almost anything from a property, but there are some items that legally or safely have to go elsewhere. Here is what a clearance team usually won’t take, and where you can dispose of each item instead.
Hazardous waste
Hazardous waste can harm people or the environment, and it needs specialist handling. In England, businesses that move it must follow the hazardous waste rules on GOV.UK. Most general clearance companies, including Fast Clearance, don’t remove:
- Asbestos — common in older garage roofs, floor tiles and pipe lagging. Don’t disturb it. Your council can advise on licensed removal, and some councils accept small amounts by appointment.
- Paint, solvents and chemicals — many household waste and recycling centres accept these. Some areas run paint reuse schemes for leftover paint.
- Gas bottles — return them to the supplier or retailer; most gas bottles remain the supplier’s property.
- Fuel and oil — take engine oil and fuel to a household waste site that accepts them.
- Clinical waste and sharps — ask your pharmacy or GP about a sharps bin collection.
Items that need care or a separate arrangement
- Large amounts of soil, rubble or plasterboard — these are heavy and often charged separately. Ask before booking.
- Fridges and freezers — we do take these, but they must be recycled as WEEE, so they are priced separately (from £90).
- Tyres — tyre retailers usually take old tyres for a small fee.
Where to take them
Use the find your local council service to check your household waste and recycling centre’s rules. Most need you to book a slot and bring proof of address.
What we do take
Everything else in a normal house clearance: furniture, beds and mattresses, white goods and electricals, boxes, clothes, books, garden furniture, loft and garage contents. See our house clearance prices or call 0208 149 3085 for a fixed quote.