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.

Make sure that waste materials don’t stick out from the sides of the skip. This can pose a potential hazard for road users or pedestrians.

Be aware that skip hire may require a skip hire permit which will cost money and takes time to organize.

Normally a skip permit is valid for a month after which can be renewed.

When hiring a skip there are usually four sizes of skip available; Mini, midi, builders and large.

Large Skips: Capacity, 12-14 cu yards or 9.2 - 10.7 cu meters. Height, 5'3” or 1.6 meters. Length, 13'8” or 4.2 meters. Width 6’ or 1.84 meters.

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

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

If you need to hire a skip, contact your local council, they may have a list of approved skip hire companies.

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.