What do I do with rubbish left over after moving?

Cleaning & End of Tenancy

Feb 08, 2026

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and clarity.

What to Do with Rubbish Left Over After Moving

Dealing with leftover rubbish after a move requires organised planning to ensure proper, responsible, and legal disposal. This applies whether clearing a property to sell, preparing for an end-of-tenancy inspection, or simply tidying up the new place. The goal is to minimise waste and ensure anything remaining is dealt with correctly.

Pre-Move Decluttering: The Best Strategy

The most effective approach is to reduce rubbish before moving day arrives. A thorough decluttering process in the weeks leading up to the move can significantly lessen the volume of items that need disposal afterwards. This involves sorting items into categories: keep, sell, donate, recycle, or dispose. Empty moving boxes can also become a form of waste, so considering what should be done with them in advance is sensible.

Categorising Leftover Waste

Rubbish isn't a single entity; different types require different disposal methods:

General Household Waste: Everyday refuse that fits into standard wheelie bins.
Recyclables: Paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, and cans. Check local council guidelines for accepted items.
Bulky Items: Furniture, large appliances, mattresses, carpets, and other items too big for general waste bins. This might include an old sofa or a broken washing machine (ensuring transit bolts are considered if it's being moved, but if it's scrap, it's just bulky waste).
Hazardous Waste: Paints, chemicals, batteries, fluorescent tubes, gas canisters, and certain electronics. These cannot be put in general waste.
Garden Waste: Cuttings, branches, soil, etc.

Disposal Options for Each Category

1. General & Recyclable Waste

Local Council Kerbside Collection: Utilise the regular bin collection services up to and including moving day. Ensure bins are accessible for collection.
Local Recycling Centres (Tips): For larger volumes of standard recyclables or general waste that won't fit in bins, council-run recycling centres (often called 'the tip' or Household Waste Recycling Centres) are available. Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill and driving licence) may be required.

2. Bulky Items

Bulky waste often requires specific arrangements. This category can include anything from old wardrobes to the remnants of a DIY project. For larger office clear-outs, guidance on how to get rid of old office furniture provides similar principles for homes.

Council Bulky Waste Collection: Most local councils offer a service to collect bulky items for a fee. Booking in advance is essential, as collection slots can be limited, especially around peak moving times.
Charity Collections: If items are in good, usable condition (e.g., furniture, white goods), many charities offer free collection services. This is a good option for diverting items from landfill and helping others.
Private Waste Removal Companies: For convenience or if council services are unavailable or too slow, private, licensed waste carriers can be hired. Always verify they hold a valid waste carrier licence from the Environment Agency to avoid illegal fly-tipping (see 'Important Considerations' below).
Selling or Freecycling: Consider online marketplaces or local 'freecycle' groups for items that still have value or use.

3. Hazardous Waste

Disposing of hazardous waste correctly is crucial for environmental safety and legality.

Specialist Facilities: Local recycling centres often have dedicated areas for hazardous materials. Check your council's website for specific details and accepted items.
Local Authority Schemes: Some councils run special collection days or provide specific drop-off points for hazardous waste.

4. Garden Waste

Council Garden Waste Schemes: Many councils offer separate garden waste bin collections, often on a subscription basis.
Composting: If staying locally and you have a new garden, consider composting suitable waste.
Recycling Centres: Most tips accept garden waste.

Important Considerations

Timeframes: Plan waste disposal well in advance, particularly for council bulky waste collections which may require several weeks' notice. Leaving items for an end-of-tenancy clean usually means ensuring everything is removed by the final inspection date; understanding what is included in an end-of-tenancy clean will help inform this.
Cost: Council bulky waste collections typically involve a fee per item or per collection. Private waste removal services vary in cost depending on volume and type of waste.
Legality and Fly-Tipping: As the waste producer, a 'duty of care' exists to ensure your waste is disposed of legally. If a private company is used, always ask to see their waste carrier licence. If your waste is found fly-tipped (illegally dumped) and traced back to you, a significant fine could be incurred, even if payment was made to someone else to take it away. Always obtain a waste transfer note.
Environmental Impact: Prioritise reuse, donation, and recycling over landfill wherever possible.
Cleaning the Property: After all rubbish is removed, the property will likely need a thorough clean. Deciding whether to hire a professional cleaner or do it yourself is the next step to ensure the property is left in good order.

A proactive approach to waste management ensures a clearer, cleaner move and avoids potential issues down the line.