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Commercial waste frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about our commercial waste and recycling services.

What is commercial waste?

Commercial waste consists of waste from premises used wholly or mainly for the purposes of a trade or business or for sport, recreation, education or entertainment but not including household, agricultural or industrial waste.

What is general waste?

Any non-recyclable items (see link) but excluding: The following items are considered hazardous waste -Light bulbs, vehicle batteries, asbestos, fridges, paint, freezers, tyres, televisions/monitors, gas bottles, plaster board, fluorescent tubes, cooking oil, vehicle batteries or engine oil, animal products and  hazardous waste of any kind,

We cannot collect these items special arrangements will be need to dispose of these items

Why isn't the cost of commercial waste collection included in business rates?

Waste charges are not included as you have the choice of using our collection services or using a service provided by an authorised, private contractor. Businesses differ in size and produce different quantities and types of waste. As businesses are charged for the quantity of waste they produce it would be unfair to have a set amount that every business must pay. Waste charges are therefore not included in the business rating system.

Who should I contact to make changes to my service?

Please contact the commercial waste & recycling team to make changes to your service. 

What is a duty of care/waste transfer note and why do we need one?

All businesses large or small, have a duty of care to make sure their waste is disposed of properly. This duty is imposed by the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (Section 33). Briefly, the duty is to ensure that the waste does not cause pollution of the environment. The trader is responsible for ensuring the waste is contained, does not blow around and that it is collected by a certified 'waste carrier'. The carrier must give you a 'waste transfer note' indicating the nature of the waste, quantity and how it is disposed of.

You can find out more information about your duty of care and how you can easily comply on the Right Waste, Right Place (opens new window) website.

Why do I have to complete a contract?

If you decide to use Swansea Council a as your 'waste carrier' you will need to enter into a contract.

The contract is an agreement between Swansea Council and the business owner to collect waste from the premises. The contract lays out the owner's agreement to pay the appropriate charges as detailed in the application and terms and conditions.

Do I have to renew my contract every year? 

No, your contract is ongoing until you tell us in writing that you wish to cancel.  This can be done by email, fax or post.

Why have my charges have increased?

We generally increase the costs in April in line with disposal and inflation we do not inform customers of prices increases prior to invoicing. If you would like to know prices please contact us.

What should I do if my collection is missed?

Occasionally, a collection may be missed due to circumstances beyond our control. If this happens, please contact the commercial waste team. We will aim to collect as soon as possible.

When is my collection day?

Different crews are responsible for collecting your general refuse and recycling. To find out your collection day, please contact the commercial waste teamYour collection day will also be given on your contract.

Will my collection days always be the same?

The council reserves the right to change the service days to meet with operational requirements.  Where possible the customer will be notified in advance.

Can I take my waste to the household waste recycling centres?

Waste can not be transported unless you are a licensed waste carrier.  If you would like a waste carrier's licence please contact the Environment Agency. The household waste recycling centres can only be used for the disposal of domestic waste and not commercial waste. If a business is found transporting waste without the relevant documentation or using the household waste recycling centres they can be fined and even prosecuted.

Why can't I just burn my waste?

By burning waste you may be breaking the law and causing environmental pollution.

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