Rules and permits
What you cannot put in a skip
Checked against Environment Agency and gov.uk guidance.
In short
- Fridges, electricals, batteries, paint, chemicals and asbestos are all banned from a general skip.
- Banned items in a skip can mean a rejected load and an extra charge.
- Use a WEEE service for electricals and a licensed hazardous carrier for asbestos and chemicals.
A general skip takes most household and building waste, but some items are banned by law because they are hazardous or need special handling. Putting them in a skip can mean a rejected load and an extra charge, so it pays to separate them first.
Banned from a general skip
- Fridges and freezers, which contain regulated gases.
- Televisions, monitors and other electricals.
- Batteries of any kind, including car batteries.
- Paint, oils, solvents and other chemicals.
- Asbestos, in any quantity.
- Tyres, gas bottles and fluorescent tubes.
- Medical or clinical waste.
What to use instead
Electricals and appliances go through a WEEE service that strips and recycles them properly. Asbestos, chemicals and clinical waste need a licensed hazardous waste carrier who can document the disposal. For everything else, your local recycling centre or the provider directly can usually point you the right way.
Common questions
Can I put a mattress in a skip?
Many firms allow mattresses but charge separately because they cannot be compacted with other waste. Always ask before you load one in.
Can I put plasterboard in a skip?
Plasterboard must be kept apart from general waste, so most firms ask for it in its own skip or bag. Tell your provider if you have any.
What do I do with an old fridge?
Fridges are banned from skips because of their gases. Use a WEEE or appliance recycling service, which many local providers offer.