Any project you tackle in your home has the potential to generate waste, and dumpster rentals are some of the best ways of managing disposal. However, there are several things you should keep in mind when trying to make the rental process as smooth as possible. Here are hassle-free dumpster rental tips on dos and don’ts to have on your project checklist.
Do Understand Local Regulations
Always check with your local municipality and/or homeowners association about any permit requirements for renting a dumpster. Various cities and neighborhood associations have different regulations regarding where you can put a dumpster and whether you need a permit for public or private property placement. Acquiring the proper permits helps avoid potential fines and ensures your project abides by local standards.
Do Choose the Right Spot
Always place the dumpster on a flat, dry and stable surface to prevent accidents and ensure safety. A solid driveway is the best choice, but if that’s not an option, an area with high and dry level ground is the next best option. The ground surface needs to support the weight of a filled dumpster, along with the delivery truck and trailer. It must also be free from obstructions like well heads, septic systems, landscape lighting, etc.
The driver will not want to drive in any areas that could potentially incur damage. Avoid areas with wet or low-lying ground to prevent damage to your yard or, worse, getting stuck and requiring a tow truck rescue. We will communicate and work with the property owner to determine the best placement, which may vary seasonally.
Do Communicate With Your Rental Company
Effective communication with your rental company about the drop-off and pickup times is also crucial. Ensuring that both parties are on the same page helps avoid misunderstandings so that the process goes smoothly. Provide detailed information about your project’s timeline to help the company schedule your dumpster delivery and removal more efficiently.
Here at Roadrunner Dumpsters, we aim for a high level of communication. You will receive a reminder email the day before delivery and pickup. You’ll also get a text message the morning of delivery/pickup and a text alert when the driver is on the way to your location. With our messaging alerts, you will always remain informed on the status of your delivery and pickup throughout the duration of your rental.
Don’t Overload Your Dumpster
Another straightforward dumpster rental tip is to avoid packing your rental above the brim. Stacking waste too high poses a safety risk, potentially causing harm if materials fall out during the loading process and/or once the dumpster goes to the landfill.
Due to USDOT safety standards and the requirements of insurance carriers, we cannot load or haul away a dumpster that has items cresting over the top or sides of the dumpster. Any overloaded items will need to remain on the premises prior to hauling the dumpster away to comply with road and driver safety standards. Stick to the limits your rental agreement sets to ensure a safe and secure dumpster-removal process. If you find yourself with more waste than expected, it’s better (and less costly) to rent another dumpster than to overload the current one. You’ll avoid incurring fees for labor and time to unload.
Don’t Forget To Consider Your Neighbors
Make sure to notify your neighbors about the rental to prevent disputes. A quick chat or a note explaining the presence of the dumpster can go a long way in maintaining harmonious relationships.
Also, mention that you have contracted the dumpster for your specific job and materials. There may be instances where neighbors think it is okay to add items to your dumpster. Items that overfill the dumpster, are heavy, or are prohibited while the dumpster is on your premises will end up being your responsibility for any related fees. This is another factor to consider when deciding on the best placement of the dumpster. You want to make it less accessible to prevent unwanted additions to the dumpster from others.
Don’t Ignore Traffic and Accessibility Needs
Lastly, the placement of your dumpster should never obstruct traffic or home access. It might seem convenient to place your rental close to the work area. But if it hinders safe passage or blocks access routes, it can become a nuisance or a hazard. Ensure the dumpster placement respects both the flow of traffic and the accessibility needs of your household and neighbors.
By following these hassle-free dumpster rental do and don’t tips, renting a dumpster can be a stress-free and efficient part of your home improvement or cleanout project. It also helps to partner with a quality company like Roadrunner Dumpsters. Our residential roll-off dumpsters come in several sizes, and our professional and accommodating team will deliver them to you. Reach out to us today for a dumpster rental that works on your terms.
