What waste needs separate handling before collection?

Tell the collector about unusual items

Flag electrical appliances, batteries, paint, chemicals, gas bottles, plasterboard and unidentified materials. Do not hide them in mixed rubbish. Keep containers intact and readable where possible, and describe what is present rather than guessing that it is harmless.

Leave suspected asbestos undisturbed

If you suspect a material contains asbestos, do not break it up or disturb it to prepare for collection. Get suitable specialist advice. HSE's guidance below explains the issue. Empire does not advertise an asbestos-removal service on these pages; an enquiry is not confirmation that a material can be collected.

Check the carrier before handing waste over

For a private household waste collection in England, GOV.UK advises checking the carrier's upper-tier registration. Ask for the registration details and check them against the Environment Agency public register. A directory badge or a professional-looking vehicle is not a substitute for that check.

Keep a record of the arrangement

Keep the agreed quote and collection details, and ask where the waste will go. Business waste has additional responsibilities and documentation requirements; use the official business-waste guidance for your circumstances. Do not assume household and commercial jobs follow identical rules.

Give Empire the information early

Use the message field to name anything that may need special handling. Include the amount and condition, plus photographs taken without disturbing the material. The team can discuss the enquiry before any collection is agreed.

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