What You Need to Know When Renting a Bin

A visual cover for a blog post about renting a dumpster, including key tips for efficient waste disposal.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents

There’s something incredibly satisfying about renting a dumpster and finally clearing out years of accumulated ‘stuff.’ Or finding the right bin to make cleanup after a renovation or construction project quick and hassle-free. 

As the truck pulls away with the refuse and rubble, you can put your feet up knowing that there isn’t one more task to do before it’s “done done”. You have earned the satisfaction of a job well and truly completed.

The process of renting a bin is, unfortunately, not nearly as fun. For a first-time renter, it may be a little daunting. So, let us take the uncertainty out of the process by giving out some basic information on what you need to know before renting a bin.

Why You Should Hire a Local Bin Rental Company

Local bin rental providers will know the regulations and necessary permits they need to have before dropping off a rental bin. Having all the paperwork in place will make the whole job easier.

If you’re looking for reliable bin rentals in Binbrook, or anywhere else in the Greater Hamilton Area, working with a trusted local provider ensures compliance with environmental rules and smooth service from drop-off to pickup.

A local company will also have a solid understanding of other factors including:

  • Environmental regulations
  • Permitted refuse
  • What is considered hazardous material
  • If there is any preparation the bin rental site requires before drop off.

For detailed information on waste management regulations, you can refer to Ontario’s General – Waste Management Regulation (Regulation 347).

Having a clear picture of what is allowed and what is not help streamline the clean up from your renovation or demolition. 

Key Terms and Conditions for Bin Rentals Explained

Once a local dumpster rental company has been selected, make sure you understand the contract. If you are unsure, ask for clarification on any confusing points.

Care and Custody

This means the customer is responsible for the safety and maintenance of the bin while it is on their property. Take photos of the condition it arrives in and be sure to place heavy material in the container carefully to avoid damaging it.

Rental Period and Extensions

This covers how long the bin has been rented for at the quoted price. If the need for the bin runs longer, extra charges may apply. Be sure the contract explains what the extension charges are, both in dollar cost and duration.

Overloading

Despite their size, rental bins do indeed have a weight limit. The materials loaded into the bin should not stick up over the top. If either of these happen, there may be additional charges associated with the excess.

To help avoid overloading, be sure you have the correct size bin for the job. Also, that you are loading your bin correctly. If you are unsure what you need, speak with the rental company. They will be happy to help you figure it out.

Damage Liability

Tips for preventing driveway damage from heavy dumpsters, including using plywood to distribute weight.

This simply means the customer recognizes the bin rental company is not responsible if there is any damage to the customer’s property from the bin. The renters know the weight of the bin and the materials can cause damage to things like curbs, grass, driveways, and landscaping if the area the bin is to be placed in is not prepared properly. If the bin must be placed on the lawn, consider covering the area with plywood to distribute the weight of the big more evenly.

What Can and Cannot Go in Your Rental Bin

A waste disposal guide showing what materials can and cannot go in a rental bin, including construction debris, yard waste, and restricted hazardous materials.

Not all bin rental companies are created equal. Some will take all waste at a standard charge, while others want certain items separated – organic and non-organic material, for example. 

Others have separate pricing for specialty items: cars or used tires versus general construction waste like drywall and broken studs. Be sure to let the rental company know what you plan to load in the bin before you sign any paperwork.

How to Confirm a Bin Rental Company’s Service Area

If the job is located in a rural or remote area, ensure that the specific address is within the boundaries the company serves. If it is not, many companies are still happy to rent but will add a distance charge to drop off and pick up the bin.

Consider the Length of Your Project

Advice on planning a dumpster rental, ensuring enough time to avoid extension fees and project delays.

The cost of the bin rental will depend mainly on how long it will be needed. Many jobs will run over due to unforeseen circumstances, so be sure to take that into account when deciding how long you want to use the bin.

How to Secure Your Rental Bin from Unauthorized Use

When you rent a dumpster, be sure you either have a locking lid or put it in a location that can easily be monitored (either in person or by camera). It’s not so much for people climbing in the rented dumpster, either. Dumpster divers are helpful if they don’t leave a mess, and aren’t likely to take offence if they get injured during their dive. 

Security is needed more for neighbours and random pedestrians taking advantage of the open top and adding refuse that isn’t yours. It takes up space and adds weight that you have to pay for. So be sure to have the dumpster dropped off in an area that is out of public view.

How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size for Your Job

Dumpsters come in a variety of sizes for different types of jobs. Most commonly, dumpsters are available in the following sizes:

  • 6 yards: good for cleaning out the basement, attic, or single car garage.
  • 10 yards: good for single-room renovations like removing flooring or changing a bathroom.
  • 14 yards: good for a light demolition project, roof replacement, or a whole home purge clean
  • 20 yards: good for large home renovations like adding an addition or a whole estate cleanout.
  • 30 yards: good for long-term projects, hoarding situations, or major home remodels.

There are other sizes available to suit any need. Simply speak with your dumpster rental company to find the right size for your needs.

A correctly sized dumpster is important for safety – overloaded or underloaded dumpsters can lose material or tip. It is also more cost-effective for the person renting if the dumpster is the size they truly need.

Why Speaking to a Bin Rental Expert Saves You Time and Money

Important bin rental guidelines explaining which waste materials are accepted and which are restricted to avoid extra fees.

Knowing the process of renting a bin helps relieve the stress of a clean-up job. Knowing the company you are renting from is reliable, insured, and knowledgeable helps even more.

E.N. Contracting & Disposal Services has over twenty years of experience in the field and an intimate knowledge of the greater Hamilton area. Give them a call at 905-966-3623 to have all your questions answered.

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