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What Junk Removal and Estate Cleanout Companies Won't Take

When you clear out a house, most things can go in the truck. But crews are limited by landfill rules, transfer station rules and safety, so certain items are refused or cost extra. Knowing the list ahead of time avoids surprises on cleanout day.

Usually refused

  • Household hazardous waste: chemicals, pesticides, pool chemicals, solvents, oil-based paint and thinners, automotive fluids.
  • Propane tanks and other pressurized cylinders, including camping gas and oxygen tanks.
  • Asbestos and suspected asbestos materials, like old pipe insulation and some floor tiles.
  • Medical waste and sharps. See disposing of medications after death.
  • Firearms and ammunition. See firearms found in an estate.
  • Biohazards, such as after an unattended death. That needs a specialist. See unattended death cleanup.

Often taken, but with an extra fee

  • Refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners, because refrigerant must be removed.
  • Tires.
  • Mattresses and box springs, which some states charge recycling fees on.
  • TVs, computers and other electronics, which many states ban from landfills.
  • Latex paint, which some companies take once it is dried out.
  • Very heavy items like pianos, safes, hot tubs and concrete.

Policies vary by company and by area, so send a list or photos when you get an estimate and ask what costs extra.

How to get rid of the leftovers

  1. Household hazardous waste days or drop-off sites run by your county or city take chemicals, paint and pesticides, often free for residents.
  2. Propane tanks can often be exchanged or returned at propane dealers and some hardware stores.
  3. Electronics can go to retailer take-back programs or e-waste recyclers.
  4. Paint: many states have paint stewardship programs with drop-off at paint stores.
  5. Asbestos needs a licensed abatement contractor.

Before the crew arrives

Set aside anything on the refused list, gather items going to family, and pull out documents and valuables. See estate cleanout checklist and finding hidden valuables in an estate.

Find an estate cleanout company near you or compare junk removal services.