When you’re trying to find the right rubbish removal company it isn’t just about getting rid of unwanted stuff, you want to know they will make sure the job is done safely, legally, and without any added stress. Whether you’re clearing your garage, renovating a home, or just want to reclaim some space you haven’t been able to use in a while, asking the right questions up front saves you headaches later.
Here are the top five questions every Essex homeowner or business should ask before booking a clearance service.
1. Are you fully licensed and insured?
This is the big one. Any reputable rubbish removal company should have a valid waste carrier licence and insurance. Without it, you could end up responsible if your rubbish gets fly-tipped or something goes wrong on-site.
A professional company will happily show you their licence number. If they can’t, that’s a massive red flag.
Real example: We once had a customer in Chelmsford who’d been quoted “cheap rates” by a man-and-van service. The rubbish ended up dumped in a field, and they got a fine. We cleared the mess properly, but it shows why asking this question matters.
2. What types of rubbish do you take?
Not every company can remove every type of waste. Some won’t handle builders’ debris, hazardous materials, or bulky items like old pianos. Asking up front avoids surprises on collection day.
At CBW Clearances, we deal with:
- Household junk and furniture
- Garden waste
- Office and commercial clearances
- Builders’ and renovation debris
We’ll always tell you if something needs special disposal.
3. How do you dispose of the waste?
A trustworthy company won’t just take your rubbish away and tip it – they’ll dispose of it responsibly. Ask about their recycling policy and where the waste goes.
In Essex, local councils and recycling centres have strict rules, so a good clearance company should know them inside out. Our team at CBW Clearances recycle wherever possible and use licensed waste transfer stations to keep things above board.
Good to know: Recycling isn’t just better for the environment – it can also keep costs lower because less waste ends up in landfill.
4. Can you give me a clear quote upfront?
Hidden fees can turn a cheap job into a pricey headache. A professional company will give you a transparent price before any work starts.
Make sure the quote covers:
- Labour
- Transport
- Disposal fees
Pro tip: Ask if the price is based on the volume of rubbish or the time spent. At CBW, we keep things simple with clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what you’re paying for so you’ll have no nasty surprises at the time of collection.
5. How quickly can you collect?
Sometimes, you need rubbish gone fast. Maybe you’re preparing to move house, finishing a recent renovation, or you want some space back which has been taken up by junk laying around. Check the company’s availability and see if they offer same-day or next-day service.
At CBW Clearances, we pride ourselves on being on-time every time. In many parts of Essex, we can even offer same-day collections.
Mini-scenario: A customer in Hornchurch called us at 9am on a Friday. By 1pm, their garage was completely cleared and swept. Quick turnarounds like that are what we do best.
Why these questions matter
These five questions aren’t just a box-ticking exercise. They’ll help you find a company that’s professional, trustworthy, and one that won’t leave you with more problems than you started with.
When you choose a rubbish removal team, you’re trusting them to handle your waste safely and with care. The right company will make the process quick and simple.
Ready to clear out?
At CBW Clearances, we tick all these boxes and more. We’re:
- Fully licensed and insured
- Fast and reliable – same-day collections available
- Transparent with pricing – no hidden fees
- Eco-friendly – recycling wherever possible
Whether it’s a one-off house clearance or a full office clean-out, we’ll handle it all. You won’t have to lift a finger.
Get a free quote today and let us sort it – quick, professional, and handled with care from start to finish.