The Dos And Don'ts Of Residential Dumpster Rental
Renting a dumpster is a great way to help declutter your home, clean up during a room renovation, or clear out your house before you move. If you've never before rented a dumpster for residential use, there are a few guidelines to follow to help make the experience one that's beneficial for both you and for the company from which you're renting. Keep these dos and don'ts in mind when renting a dumpster for home use:
Do: Calculate How Much Space You Need
Dumpsters are measured by the cubic yard. One cubic yard will hold approximately 200 gallons of refuse -- the equivalent of two large trash cans. If your goal is to rent a dumpster to allow you to clean out the clutter in your home -- clothing, trash, broken household goods, toys and more -- a small, 8-yard dumpster should suffice. This dumpster takes up about as much space as a mid-sized car parked in your driveway and will hold as much as five pick-up truck loads of discarded materials.
Don't: Over- or Under-Estimate
Intentionally over- or under-estimating the size of the dumpster you need will end up costing you money in the long run. If you rent a dumpster that's too small, you might exceed the maximum weight limit. Most rental companies charge extra fees to renters who go over. And if you rent a dumpster that's far larger than what you need, you'll pay more up front for space you didn't use.
Do: Know What You Can Put in Your Dumpster
Almost every dumpster rental company has a list of items that are not acceptable for inclusion in a residential dumpster. These items vary by region, but for the most part, they include items such as the following:
- Paint
- Pool Chemicals
- Pesticides
- Large Appliances
- Car Batteries
- Tires
- Gas-Powered Machinery
- Mattresses
Often, these items are prohibited in local landfills, which is why your dumpster rental company cannot accept them.
Don't: Try to Sneak Prohibited Items Into Your Dumpster
You might think that tossing that old bottle of weedkiller into the dumpster is okay if you cover it well with less-controversial refuse. But you run the risk of being caught if you do this. Not only will the rental company charge you additional fees, but your contribution could end up in the local landfill where it contaminates the soil or even the water run-off. Rules are in place for a reason. Be a conscientious renter and consider the results of your actions.
Do: Be Courteous of Your Neighbors
Don't schedule a delivery or pick-up time that's early in the morning, late at night, or during the most high-traffic time of day for your neighborhood. Take into account school bus schedules and morning and evening drive times when working with your rental company to deliver or retrieve your residential dumpster.
Don't: Allow Others to Use Your Dumpster
You might think you're being a good neighbor by allowing others to dispose of items in your dumpster, but this is a bad idea for several reasons: Your neighbor may not realize that certain items are prohibited. A local child could become injured while playing in or near your dumpster. Or, your dumpster could fill up before you've had time to dispose of all your own refuse, causing bad feelings between you and the neighbors you were trying to help. Your dumpster is your responsibility. Use it wisely.
Renting a dumpster could be one of the most inspiring projects you'll take on this season. It will help you clean up your home, straighten your yard, and organize your life. Call your local dumpster rental company today or visit http://www.tri-statedisposal.com/.
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