Since November 2005 all householders in England have had a
legal responsibility to ensure that all of their waste is disposed
of properly.
The Environmental Protection (Duty of Care) Regulations 1991 (as
amended), require all householders to make sure their waste is only
removed from their premises by registered waste carriers.
Householders not taking reasonable measures to do so could face
fines of up to £5,000.
Householders can still dispose of their own waste
at household waste recycling centres (new
window) free of charge. If you are unable to take bulky
items to one of the centres, Suffolk Coastal Services
can collect and dispose of these items for a
fee.
If you are using a waste carrier, other than Suffolk Coastal
Services, to remove household, garden or construction waste you can
check they are registered waste carriers by calling the
Environment Agency on 08708 506506 and requesting
a waste carrier validation check or you can
check the
online public register of waste carriers (new
window).
Think first whether the contractor you are using is one of the
following:
- all building and allied trades.
- house clearers.
- retail establishments.
- scrap metal dealers.
Always ask for their waste carrier number and if in doubt check
their details with the Environment Agency. Remember it is
you that could face a fine of up to
£5,000!