Choosing the Right Garbage Removal Service: Ten Questions to Ask

Nobody wants it, but everybody has it. And when you renovate your home or upgrade your appliances, you'll have a lot. That's one reason why garbage removal is one of the hottest industries today. But with all the listings out there, how do you choose the right rubbish removal service for your needs? Here are some questions you might want to ask before booking an appointment with a residential garbage removal company:

1. Who will be doing the heavy lifting? Some companies have workers that come and collect garbage from right inside your house. This comes in handy when you're disposing of heavy items such as appliances or furniture. Other companies will ask you to move everything to a central location, like the end of your driveway.

2. What will you take? Many companies take just about anything, while others have restrictions on paints, solvents, batteries, and other hazardous materials. Think about what you're tossing before you book.

3. What is your price structure? Most garbage removal services charge by the size of the load, but others may charge by the trip, regardless of the amount. Sometimes there is a premium for extra-heavy materials. If possible, find out if they will come to your house to give you a free estimate. They will usually be able to give you a pretty accurate idea of your overall cost.

4. How can I pay? Some rubbish removal services will take all major forms of payment—cash, credit cards, checks, etc— and others won't. Also, you may have to pay all or a part of the fee in advance as a deposit. Be sure to find out if they offer any coupons, specials, or discounts (senior citizen, student, etc.).

5. How far in advance will I have to schedule? As this market has become more competitive, companies are becoming more customer-friendly. Many garbage removal companies provide same-day or next-day service, and some are willing to do pick-ups when you're not there. Still, it's best to schedule your pick-up a few days, or a week, in advance.

6. Is cleanup included in the price? A good garbage removal company with clean up and sweep the area after they are finished, so you aren't left with a lot of work when they are done. If you are doing a major home renovation, some will even do light demolition work.

7. Will there be a dumpster at my house? Different rubbish removal services work in different ways. Some will leave a container at your house for you to fill, others will remove your junk and you'll be rid of it immediately—it all depends on your needs and your budget.

8. Do you donate any items? Most companies will donate gently-used items if you ask them to. However, some will charge extra for this because it involves another drop-off stop for them.

9. Do you take vehicles? Many rubbish removal companies will not take broken-down trailers, campers, or vehicles because of legal and/or logistical concerns, but auto companies will often take your vehicles away, sometimes at no charge.

10. Are you licensed and insured? This can be a good way to tell a reputable garbage removal company from a fly-by-night operation.