Common Dumpster Rental Mistakes to Avoid

Tossing Hazardous Materials

When doing home renovations or cleanouts, it can be tempting to just toss everything in a dumpster to get rid of it. However, there are certain items that should never be tossed in a dumpster and easily get overlooked in the midst of all the commotion. Fluids such as motor oil, gasoline, cleaning chemicals, and pesticides shouldn’t be disposed of in a dumpster. Other items to be cautious of are batteries, old paint, fluorescent light bulbs, and tires. For a list of what can and can’t be thrown in a dumpster, check out our previous post.

Placement

Determining where your dumpster will be dropped off and staying for the next few days, weeks, or even months during large home renovation projects is key. Many people make the mistake of dropping it somewhere that blocks doors or windows, hinders whether your car still fits in the driveway, etc. Or, they put it somewhere that ends up causing damage to their property. For example, if you have newly planted grass, don’t put it in a spot that workers will continuously have to walk over it in order to throw things away, eventually killing your fresh grass. Making sure it’s on a flat, sturdy spot is also crucial. Avoid slopes or soft ground. You’ll also want to check with your city’s rules. Depending on where you live, you may only be able to have it placed on the street for 24 hours or you’ll need a permit.

Misjudging Time

Ideally, the dumpster should only be in the driveway for the duration of your project. However, when scheduling your drop-off and pick-up, you might not know the exact timing of everything. Things may take longer, or shorter than expected. It can be helpful to discuss your project with the contractor, as they might be able to help you determine a more accurate length of time. If you do realize in the middle of your project that you need more time, call your dumpster company immediately to see if an extension is possible.

Contact Clifford Containers

The best way to ensure a smooth dumpster rental process is to talk to the experts yourself. If you need a dumpster rental on the South Shore of MA, contact us today! Our team will be happy to help you determine which size you need, how long it should be scheduled for, and more. Request a custom quote today or give us a call at (781) 337-7389 to learn more!