Remove personal items first
Take out documents, photographs, jewellery, medication, keys and anything promised to family. Check drawers, pockets, tins, lofts and sheds before general bagging begins.
Put retained items in one locked room or vehicle. If several people are involved, nominate one person to approve the final pile so conflicting labels do not cause mistakes.
Separate reusable contents
Clean working items may be suitable for reuse, but acceptance depends on condition and space. Upholstered furniture normally needs its fire-safety label intact. Arrange donations early rather than assuming everything will be collected on the final day.
Keep electricals, metal, wood and ordinary contents distinct where practical. This makes the job easier to assess and helps prevent recyclable material being buried in mixed bags.
Flag restricted material
Paint, chemicals, gas bottles, asbestos, clinical waste, batteries and unidentified liquids need special handling and cannot simply be mixed with household contents. Photograph and describe anything uncertain before booking.
Empty and defrost fridges and freezers. For sofas, beds and other bulky items, show the exit route as well as the item so stairs and doorways can be planned.
Check the carrier and show the whole job
Photograph every room plus lofts, garages, sheds and gardens. Complete images produce a better volume estimate and reduce the chance of an unexpected second load.
Use a registered waste carrier and keep the details. Eddy Leasing Limited holds upper-tier Environment Agency registration CBDU445737. For a Chepstow clearance quote, call 01291 769 770.