Renting a dumpster is a great option to consider when you’re planning to clean up or renovate a property. Having one of these containers onsite can help you efficiently get rid of debris. Waste management companies and cities have regulations regarding what renters can and cannot do with a dumpster. For more info, contact us! The following checklists can guide you on how to proceed when renting a dumpster.

Dumpster Rental Do’s
In the event that you need to rent a dumpster, be sure adhere to the following guidelines on what you can and should do before and during the rental process:

Get a Permit
Before renting a dumpster, you may need to get a permit from the local government in your city to hire a dumpster, especially if it will be situated on city-owned property. Contact your city's management to find out whether or not you need a permit.

Select the Right Size
The container that you rent should be the correct size. If you select a small container, it will only serve you for a few weeks. This may not be enough to tackle a major project. On the other hand, an oversized container will force you to use more space and resources than necessary. There’s no reason to overpay for a larger unit and inconvenience your neighbors. Reputable waste management companies offer their customers different container sizes. Availability of options gives renters the freedom to select a container that will cater to their needs.

Contact a Reputable Waste Management Company
Every city has several waste management companies. You should ensure that you work with a reputable and professional company to receive high quality services. A reputable company will deliver a clean container exactly when you need it. This offers convenience and peace of mind. You can also be sure the workers will not leave behind any debris on site after the container is hauled away.

Provide Adequate Notice
Once you know that you will need a dumpster for your residential or commercial project, notify the dumpster rental company. Ideally, you want to tell them one or two weeks in advance. The notice will give the service provider time to organize the unit’s logistics. You will also get the assurance that you will get the right size container at the right time.

Adhere to the Outlined Disposal Guidelines
Every waste management company offers disposal guidelines to customers renting containers. These rules depend on the project or intended purpose. For example, if you have rented a container for an interior modeling project, the guidelines will differ from those for a large construction project. Follow these rules to avoid damaging the container or complicating the transportation process. Adhering to the guidelines will also save you from legal trouble.

Load Acceptable Items
Dumpster rental service providers permit customers to load building materials, home improvement debris, empty aerosol cans, household junk, electronics, and other smaller home appliances into their dumpsters. However, which items you can load also depend on the local government’s laws. Make sure to read up on local laws and regulations before loading up the dumpster.

Place the Dumpster on a Flat, Hard Surface
Placing the dumpster on a level hard surface will allow rainwater to drain properly. Sitting water can cause a foul smell and become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The flat surface will also prevent the container from rolling away. If you plan to put the dumpster on your driveway, inform the dumpster rental company beforehand. They will put a piece of cardboard or wood underneath to ensure that the harsh surface does not scratch the container.

Load Evenly
When loading the dumpster, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on the top. This will create a balance during transportation. Roll-off dumpsters usually sit high on trucks. The driver can find it difficult to haul, turn, or stop the roll-on dumpster if you load it unevenly to the container's front, rear, or side.

Consider the Weight Limit
Every container has a weight limit for safety reasons. You need to keep the debris under this limit. If you are unsure how much garbage you should place in the container, communicate with the rental service provider or check the FAQ section of the company’s website.

Shut After Loading
Once you have finished loading the dumpster and are ready for the pickup, make sure that you shut and latch its door. Remember to apply the safety chains and pins to keep the load in the container when the driver lifts it. If you have trouble, seek assistance from the service provider.

Dumpster Rental Don’ts
Renting a dumpster has many benefits for anyone working on a renovation or construction project. However, you need to make sure to follow the rules. The following practices are not acceptable when renting a dumpster:

Overload the Container
Avoid overloading dumpster containers. Overfilling occurs when the container is too small or filling up faster than expected. If you experience this issue, communicate with the waste management company and find a solution. For example, they can create a flexible and responsible schedule for hauling away the debris.

Move the Dumpster
Do not move the dumpster after it is set. If you need to move it, ensure that you contact the dumpster rental company first. Rental service providers always communicate with homeowners about the most appropriate location for the containers. They understand that moving one can cause damage. Violating this rule will cause you to incur added expenses, such as a costly repair bill.

Load Unacceptable Items
Dumpster companies forbid their customers from loading various items, such as paints and adhesives, refrigerators, tires, car batteries, fuel tanks, and water tanks. Most of these items are extremely large or heavy. Others contain materials that are toxic and hazardous for the environment and people in the surrounding area. For more information about the permissible items, call the dumpster company and the local government in your city. Alternatively, you can check that information on the FAQ section of the rental company’s website.

If you are planning a renovation project in your home or commercial property, a dumpster can be a great resource. Knowing the acceptable and unacceptable practices related to dumpster rental will allow you to enjoy the service and avoid legal issues or unplanned expenses. If you’re in the market for renting a dumpster, contact the experts at New England Recycling today.