Disposal of bulky items
When you no longer need an old sofa, cooker, washing machine or fridge, you're responsible for safely disposing of your unwanted, bulky item. You must make sure it doesn't harm the environment or human health. Local councils can arrange to collect and safely dispose of bulky household items.
COVID-19
All councils have resumed Bulky Waste Collections. Due to increased demand and COVID-19 control measures to protect waste workers and the public, response times may be longer than usual. Consider reusing or repairing the item if possible.
Authorised waste collection
If you give your waste to someone else for disposal, you must make sure they are authorised to take it. You must only give waste to:
- local council waste services
- council-authorised waste contractor
- licensed private waste operator
- registered waste carrier
Donating appliances to charities
Some local traders or charities may accept appliances in good working order.
If a local trader offers to collect and dispose of your appliance, you must check they will dispose of it legally.
Fly-tipping
Fly-tipping is illegal. Dumped refrigerators and freezers are hazardous to children or pets who may be harmed or become trapped inside.
It also diverts precious resources away from other important services, putting additional pressure on essential waste workers.
Report waste crime
It is a criminal offence to dump or burn waste where it's not allowed, or allow others to do this.
Waste crime:
- harms the environment
- creates a human health hazard
- detracts from an area
If you notice or suspect waste crime, you can report this.