Employing a Third Party to Remove Waste

The Authority is able to assist residents in the collection of most waste produced at home, however, in some circumstances it is necessary for householders to employ the services of a third party contractor to remove certain types and quantities of materials e.g. hard bonded asbestos, soil and rubble, DIY waste.

Companies and individuals that transport waste as part of their business are required by law to register for license with the Environment Agency. These 'waste carriers' must transport material to legitimate waste management sites and pay for the lawful disposal of the waste.

Companies that do not act lawfully, often fly-tip material. The illegal dumping of waste is a growing problem and can cause significant harm to the local environment.

Anyone who is concerned whether the operators they use to remove household, garden or construction waste are legitimate can follow the 5-step waste carrier validation check:

1. Consider whether the contractor falls into one of the following categories: all building and allied trades; landscape gardeners; tree fellers and surgeons; house clearers; retail establishments and scrap metal dealers. These are occupations that will normally need a waste carrier registration.
2. Ask the contractor if they are a registered waste carrier and ask for their waste carrier number. If they are not registered advise them they need to speak to the Environment Agency on 08708 506506.
3. Telephone the Environment Agency and request a Waste Carrier Validation Check.
4. The Environment Agency will be able to confirm that the contractor is registered.
5. Where the are not registered, refuse their services.

The company can be further asked where they intend to take the waste. This should be to an authorised site. This can also be checked through the Environment Agency.

Remember, if your rubbish is found fly-tipped and traced back to you, you could be held responsible.

Further advice can be provided by the Environment Agency or Trading Standards (Door step sellers).