Begin with documents and personal items
Remove passports, certificates, photographs, jewellery, medication, keys and anything promised to family. Check drawers, coat pockets, tins, loft boxes and sheds before general sorting starts.
Keep retained items in a locked room or vehicle. If several people are involved, nominate one person to approve the collection pile before loading begins.
Sort reusable items before waste
Clean working items may be suitable for reuse, although upholstered furniture normally needs an intact fire-safety label. Acceptance depends on condition and space, so arrange donations early.
Keep electricals, metal, wood and ordinary contents distinct where practical. This makes the volume easier to assess and prevents reusable pieces being mixed with damaged material.
Photograph every space
Show each room plus lofts, garages, sheds and gardens. Include stairs, gates and the walking route to the van. Complete photos produce a better volume and crew estimate.
Empty and defrost fridges and freezers. For sofas, beds and wardrobes, photograph the exit route as well as the item so doors and stairs can be checked.
Flag restricted waste and check the carrier
Paint, chemicals, gas bottles, asbestos, clinical waste and unidentified liquids require special handling. Keep them separate and describe them before booking.
Use a registered waste carrier and keep the details. Eddy Leasing Limited holds upper-tier Environment Agency registration CBDU445737. Call 01454 540014 for a Yate clearance quote.