Clearing a home generates more waste than most people expect. A full property clearance, a partial declutter or the aftermath of a renovation all benefit from hiring a skip, making the waste easier to manage while ensuring it is handled responsibly. With environmental pressures, local regulations and rising landfill costs, selecting the right skip size can also impact cost and sustainability.
J&J Franks offers a broad selection of skip hire options, each suited to different house types and project scopes. Knowing what size skip to hire ensures you have enough capacity without overspending or running into problems further down the line.
Understanding Skip Sizes and Capacities
| Skip Size Name | Cubic Yardage | Capacity (Approx. Bin Bags / Use Case) |
| Midi | 4–5 yards | 45–55 bin bags |
| Builder’s Skip | 6–8 yards | 65–85 bin bags |
| Large | 10–12 yards | 100–120 bin bags |
| Roll-on/Roll-off | 20–40 yards | Ideal for major clearances and bulky materials |
Best Skip Size by House Type
1-Bedroom Flat or Studio
For a small flat or studio clearance, a Midi skip is often sufficient. These skips are compact in size and fit well in tight spaces, making them ideal for small-scale decluttering or removing furniture. They are cost-effective and suitable for lightweight waste such as cardboard, small appliances or textiles.
2-Bedroom House
For a standard 2-bedroom house, a Midi or small Builder’s Skip is a suitable choice. These sizes provide enough capacity for smaller home renovations or full room clear-outs. They can handle bulkier items like white goods, mattresses and mixed general waste without overflowing.
3-Bedroom House
A Builder’s Skip in the 6 to 8-yard range is the go-to option for clearing or renovating a 3-bedroom house. It accommodates a wide variety of waste types, from old furniture and broken appliances to garden debris and renovation offcuts. These skips offer a balance between volume and affordability.
4+ Bedroom House
Larger homes undergoing major renovation or a full property clearance typically require a 10 to 12-yard skip, or even a Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) skip for bigger projects. These are ideal for higher volumes of mixed waste, including kitchen and bathroom fixtures, building rubble and bulky furniture. Be sure to check with your local council or skip hire provider regarding any permits required on larger skips being placed on public roads.
Key Considerations Before Hiring
Before booking a skip for hire, it’s important to assess whether there is sufficient access to your property for the skip to be delivered and collected. Tight driveways or low-hanging trees can restrict their placement. If the skip needs to be positioned on a public road or pavement, you’ll need a permit from the local council.
It’s also worth knowing what can and can’t go into a standard skip. Common restricted items include electrical appliances, paint, tyres and hazardous waste, as these can pose environmental risks, require specialist disposal or are governed by strict waste regulations. J&J Franks offers guidance on approved waste types to help you avoid contamination, penalties or project delays. Additionally, you should also consider how long you’ll need the skip for, as extended hire periods can increase costs.
Tips to Maximise Skip Use
Maximising space within your skip can save money, preventing the need to hire a second skip. Break down bulky items like wardrobes and bed frames as much as possible to reduce air gaps. Load heavier items such as rubble and soil at the bottom to squash air gaps, followed by lighter waste on top.
Avoid filling the skip above the indicated level line. Overfilled skips may be unsafe to transport and therefore incur additional charges or collection refusal. Responsible loading helps ensure efficient disposal and compliance with weight limits.
Efficient House Clearance Made Easy
Selecting the right skip size based on your property type simplifies the clearance process and keeps costs under control. From Mini skips for flats to RoRo options for larger homes, there is a skip hire solution suitable for every house clearance. Planning ahead with accurate estimates ensures you only pay for the space you truly need.
Contact J&J Franks for expert advice, prompt delivery and responsible waste handling. The right skip makes house clearances quicker, easier and more efficient by giving you a single, reliable solution for removing large volumes of waste while supporting environmentally conscious disposal.
