3 Things You Need To Know Before Renting A Dumpster

Are you planning to undertake a major home remodeling project in the near future? If so, you'll likely need to rent a roll-off dumpster for discarding all of the debris. Before you sign on the dotted line, there are three important things you should know about dumpster rental.

1. Make Sure You Rent the Right Size Dumpster for the Job

Rent a dumpster one size larger than you think you'll need. If you're like most people, you'll underestimate how much space is really needed to dispose of large pieces of remodeling debris like old carpeting and drywall. Enlighten Me offers these tips for choosing the right size dumpster:

  • Small Jobs: For small jobs, such as a small bathroom renovation or patio remodel, a 10-cubic yard dumpster may work fine, but you'll need to pack it as efficiently as possible. The dimensions of a 10-yard dumpster rental are 12 x 8 x 4 feet.
  • Medium-Sized Jobs: Typically, a 20-cubic yard dumpster works best for small to medium-sized jobs, like a floor remodel or garage clean-up. Although you might be able to get away with the smaller size, a 20-yard dumpster is easier to work with because you won't need to cram everything inside.  This dumpster measures 22 x 8 x 4.5 feet.
  • Large Jobs: A 30-cubic yard dumpster rental is ideal for any renovation project that involves tearing out walls, flooring and anything else. This 22 x 8 x 6-foot dumpster can accommodate a lot of debris, yet it's still small enough to fit in most driveways.

For most DIY remodeling jobs, you won't need to go with a dumpster any larger than 30 cubic yards. However, if you're embarking on a major renovation or commercial project and anticipate having an extraordinary amount of debris, you might want to consider a 40-cubic yard dumpster rental. At 22 x 8 x 8 feet, this dumpster is mammoth so make sure you have enough room in your driveway for its delivery.

2. Make Sure the Dumpster is Parked in a Convenient Location

Proper dumpster placement requires a bit of forethought and planning. Clear an adequate-sized spot in your driveway, yard or street that is conveniently located for the type of job you're about to undertake. Otherwise, you may end up walking everything over to the dumpster which can be a real hassle.

Keep in mind many roll-off dumpsters are very tall, making it difficult to heave debris up and over the side. For remodeling projects in an upstairs bedroom or bathroom, try to have the dumpster parked close enough to your house so you can toss remodeling rubbish out a second-story window directly into the dumpster.

Proper placement of your rental dumpster means you may have to park your vehicles further away from home until the job is completed. While this may not be ideal, it's probably an easier option than placing the dumpster too far away from your work site.

3. Make Sure You Obtain the Proper Permits before Parking Your Dumpster on the Street

If you're planning to place the dumpster on the street in front of your house, your local government may require a permit. Before renting, it's always a good idea to check with your town office to get information about rules and regulations that dictate the placement of your dumpster rental. If you live on a property governed by a homeowners association, be sure to check the provisions of your contract before renting the dumpster, too.

Now that you understand the importance of renting an appropriate-sized dumpster, parking it in a convenient location and obtaining the proper permits, you're ready to rent a dumpster for your home renovation project. Good luck!


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