Get matched with top haulers in Vail, CO

If debris from a tree located in a government-owned space (such as a sidewalk, public school, or government property) falls in your yard, it is the city’s or state government’s responsibility to have the debris cleaned up. On the other hand, most states only hold a neighbor liable for cleaning up their tree’s debris if they were negligent in caring for the tree.

To clean an estate, start by locating all important documents, which you’ll need to sort through. Have the mail forwarded, change the locks, and take inventory of the entire estate. Once you know what you’re dealing with, create a plan and a timeline for the cleanout. Start clearing out rooms and sorting items to donate, sell, or get rid of. Finally, deep clean the property.

When deciding what order to pack your home, starting with non-essential items such as seasonal decor, rarely used kitchenware, and extra linens is always a smart idea. Next, pack decorations and out-of-season clothing. Then move to kitchen items, electronics, and bathroom supplies, leaving essentials for last. Finally, pack a "first-night" box with must-haves like toiletries, clothes, and essential documents.

The most affordable way to get rid of junk often involves a do-it-yourself approach, especially if you don't have a large amount of debris. Start by sorting your items into categories: donate, recycle, sell, or trash.

• Donate or Sell: Usable goods can be donated to local charities. You can also list items for free or for a low price on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

• Use Municipal Services: Your city's regular garbage collection or bulk pickup days can be the cheapest option. However, be sure to check community guidelines for quantity limits and accepted materials. You can also take recyclables to a city drop-off center.

• Haul it Yourself: If you have a truck or suitable vehicle, loading the junk and taking it to a local transfer station, public dump, or waste disposal facility is a very cost-effective method.

If a DIY approach isn't possible, consider these options:

• Rent a Dumpster: You can rent a dumpster, fill it yourself, and the rental company will haul it away. This is a good middle-ground if you can do the labor but don't have a vehicle for transport.

• Hire a Junk Removal Service: While typically the most expensive choice, hiring a professional junk removal team is the most time-efficient and requires the least effort from you. This is a good solution if your city's services won't accept the items or if you are unable to move them yourself.