Article by Andrew Stratton

There are many cases which require a total cleanout and disposal of solid waste materials from a private property – whether that be a home or business. The most common reason for completely clearing a property occurs when a family member dies and surviving members are preparing to sell home or business space.

Another situation that requires the total clean out and disposal of solid waste is a home foreclosure or business bankruptcy. In these events, the state or bank will typically inherit the property as is – solid waste and all.

As a result, the agent responsible for listing and selling the property will typically hire a contractor to remove the belongings so the house is clean and empty when placed on the market. In either situation (a foreclosure or estate clean out), there are few things to keep in mind when preparing to dispose of solid waste materials.

The first thing to consider is the potential to recycle and earn money scrapping old appliances and metal from the property. A clean out contractor will typically haul these items away and make a few hundred dollars cashing them in at the local scrap yard. However, you can do this yourself by simply having access to a hand truck and a flatbed of some sort. Old washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, stoves, abandoned cars, etc. can all be exchanged for cash payment.

Next, the person in charge of the property must contact the township to discuss local ordinances for trash removal of large and un-baggable items. Certain townships require that wooden items are cut down and placed into bags, while other townships have specific dates for large trash pickups. You will also want to consider which items should be recycled and placed in the appropriate recycling bins. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in fines, so it’s important to be aware of the rules. The easiest way to find out the answers to these questions is to call the town hall or county transfer station and explain in detail what you or the clean out contractor will be hauling out to the curb.

Finally, before hiring a contractor for a solid waste disposal job, take the time to review some of the items being marked as trash. If you believe you have found something of value to a collector or consumer left behind in the home, consider selling it for yourself. Likewise, abandoned items that are in good shape may be put to better use if given to charity.

Organizations such as the Purple Heart and the Salvation army are constantly seeking donations of gently worn clothing and household items, and the abandoned items from an estate or foreclosure could be used to help local families in need.