How much does rubbish removal cost in the UK?
A 2026 guide to rubbish clearance costs by van load, hourly rate and house clearance.
Rubbish removal is usually priced by volume, and using a licensed waste carrier protects you from fly-tipping fines. Here are typical 2026 costs.
Typical rubbish removal costs
| Job | Typical cost (2026 guide) |
|---|---|
| Small load (up to 1 m²) | £80–£150 |
| Large load (3+ m²) | £250–£400+ |
| Man-and-van (hourly) | £35–£93 / hour |
| Per cubic yard | around £75 |
| Medium house clearance | around £400 |
These are typical guide prices for 2026 and will vary by job, property and location. Always get written quotes for your own project before deciding.
What affects the cost?
- The volume and weight of the waste
- The type of waste (general, bulky or hazardous)
- Labour and the number of operatives
- Access and parking
- Whether it is a single item or a full clearance
- London and South East rates (higher)
Rubbish removal costs in London
In London and the South East, rubbish removal costs run above the national average, partly due to disposal charges, congestion and ULEZ, and parking. Always use a licensed waste carrier so your waste is disposed of legally.
How to get a fair price
Use a registered waste carrier — you can be fined if your waste is fly-tipped, even by someone you paid. Get a price based on volume, and confirm whether labour and disposal are included.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a van load of rubbish cost to remove?
A small van load (up to 1 cubic metre) is typically £80–£150, while a large load (3+ cubic metres) costs £250–£400 or more, depending on the waste and your location.
Do I need a licensed waste carrier?
Yes. Always use a registered waste carrier — if your waste is fly-tipped you can be fined even if you paid someone to take it away. Ask to see their waste carrier licence.
How much does a house clearance cost?
A medium-sized house clearance averages around £400, though it varies with the volume of items, access and location.
Need waste removal?
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