10 Junk Removal Questions to Expect From the Pros

A large-scale yard project, renovation, or house cleaning often leaves you with debris and junk that may not fit in your trash bins or your vehicle for a trip to the landfill—so what do you do with it? It’s time to contact junk removal professionals about taking away your unnecessary waste, debris, and materials from past projects. When you’re ready, here are 10 junk removal questions you should plan to discuss with your pro.

1. When do you need the junk removed?

Expect trash-takers to ask about your timeline and when you’d like to have junk removed. Depending on the time of year, they may have full schedules, so they’ll want to know how long you’re okay with waiting.

2. Is this a commercial or residential location, and what’s the address?

Waste removal needs often differ between homes and businesses, so the pros will want to find out what kind of job this is and where they are expected to go. Remember, they’ll often charge by distance or mile, depending on how far they have to travel.

3. What kind of junk or waste do you have to remove?

Expect to give at least a brief explanation of the sort of junk or debris you need removed before the business will give you a quote or arrange for a pickup. You may be able to explain it on their website or over the phone. Keep in mind that the average junk removal costs around $242, but your total price will depend on factors such as how much junk and the type of junk you need removed.

4. What is the approximate weight and size of your junk?

Some trash removers charge based on the weight of debris, so do your best to make an educated guess. At a minimum, they’ll want to know how large your load is so they know how much space it will take on their truck.

5. Do you have any appliances to remove?

Always mention if you have large, heavy appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, or refrigerators to get rid of. These often require dollies and extra tools to move, and most pros will want to know the details.

6. Do you have any hazardous waste, cleaners, or chemicals to remove?

If you’re hiring someone to clear out garage junk or take away remodeling debris, they may ask if you have any hazardous waste. This can include cleaners, solvents, paints and other bottles often kept around garages. These materials require extra care and the right procedures to get rid of safely—be sure to ask about their protocols to make sure you find and hire the right junk removal company.

7. Will you require cleanup, excavation, or demolition services?

Debris removal specialists may want to know if you’re looking for extra services to help complete the job. For example, if you want an old shed demolished and hauled away to reveal a clean, empty space, prepare to add to the cost. 

8. Will you need a bin or dumpster?

Many companies offer bins and dumpsters alongside removal, so you can easily pile debris into them and have it taken away. Dumpster rental costs start at $200 per week but can be less than intensive junk removal.

9. Where on the property is the junk located?

Will the junk be out on the curb for easy pickup? Will removers need to go to your backyard to access it? Will they have to trek across your property where there are no easy-access roads? These questions will let your pro know how long a project may take and how much labor is involved.

10. Do you need junk removed on a schedule?

The pros may also want to know if you’re interested in setting up a recurring schedule for debris removal, which may help if you have a large, ongoing project.