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What can't go in a skip (and what to do instead)
Skips take most household and building waste, but some items are banned by law or by disposal-site rules. Here's each one and its real alternative:
Asbestos
Never. It's licensed-handler territory — Norfolk County Council's website lists approved routes for small bonded amounts, and surveys/removal firms handle the rest. Putting it in a skip contaminates the whole load.
Fridges and freezers
Contain refrigerant gases needing controlled removal. Norfolk recycling centres accept household fridges; retailers often take the old one when delivering new; council bulky-waste collection covers the rest.
TVs, monitors and electricals
WEEE rules: recycling centres have dedicated bays, and larger retailers take back old electricals when you buy replacements.
Tyres
Banned from landfill. Any tyre fitter disposes of them for a small fee (£3–£6 each is typical).
Paint and chemicals
Liquid paint, solvents, pesticides and oils are hazardous waste. Dry out small amounts of emulsion (add sand or hardener) — then the empty tins can go in. Recycling centres have hazardous-waste points for the rest.
Batteries and gas bottles
Fire and explosion risk. Supermarkets take household batteries; car batteries go to recycling centres or scrap dealers; gas bottles go back to the supplier — most operate exchange or return schemes free.
Plasterboard (the one that surprises people)
Not banned, but must be kept separate from general waste at disposal. Mention plasterboard when booking — the provider will advise a bag-out or separate arrangement rather than a refused load.