Try to think realistically about what needs to thrown away. Two small skips will cost more to hire than a large one.

When it’s dark or visibility is poor because of fog or mist, place reflective cones or flashing marker lights around the skip.

Midi Skips: Small, convenient and suitable for small low volume waste projects.

If your skip isn’t filled and its contents aren’t stable, cover with dampened or netting to prevent inside waste materials from blowing out.

Builders Skips: Capacity, 6-8 cu yards or 4.6 - 6.1 cu meters. Height, 4' or 1.22 meters. Length, 12' or 3.66 meters. Width 5'6” or 1.68 meters.

Never fill a skip with waste materials that could present a potential fire hazard or cause an explosion. Also, materials that could release toxic fumes, pose a health or environmental hazard should not be thrown into a skip.

It’s probable that you won’t need a permit if your skip is placed completely on private land.

Your local council will be able to provide you with information on the placing of skips and permits.

Usually the vehicle delivering the skip to your house will be a LGV and are normally very large. Make sure there is enough room to allow it in and out safely.

Mini Skips: Capacity, 1-2 cu yards or 0.75-1.5 cu meters. Height, 2'6” or 0.76 meters. Length, 5' or 1.52 meters. Width 4' or 1.22 meters.