Waste Management in Rental Properties

Landlords should ensure that the property has sufficient waste facilities for the anticipated usage. For example, if more than five people are in the property, some local authorities allow a second waste bin. To minimise waste, landlords should encourage recycling. Different local authorities have different systems and rules. For example, in some areas, recycling is in a single container, and in others, the householder separates it. A simple sheet, often available from the local authority, should be provided explaining the local system. Alongside this, tenants should be told when the different collections take place. Tenants should be directed to the local authority's current recycling, collection day, and bulky waste information.

Where vacating tenants leave waste in the property or garden on move-out, the landlord should arrange for this to be removed if it exceeds the capacity of the regular collection. Some of this can be reduced by providing tenants with information about bulk waste collection as the move approaches. Many local authorities offer a chargeable waste collection service for large items, and informing the tenant how to use this service can reduce the amount left.

It is essential to understand that removing waste is a licensed activity, and the landlord should provide information only about licensed waste carriers and use licensed waste carriers themselves. It is an offence to use an unlicensed waste carrier.

Before arranging clearance, check the Environment Agency public register to confirm that any waste carrier, broker or dealer is registered, and keep a receipt or record of the collection where appropriate.