Hiring a house clearance specialist is the best option to clear a property quickly. But how much does it cost?
On average, three-bedroom homes will be charged between £500 and £1,000. This ensures the building is cleared quickly, safely and with specialist handling for more oversized items.
It’s important to promptly clear old, inherited, or recently vacated buildings to avoid the risk of insects and infestations.
You must also hire a licensed disposal expert to comply with regulations around correct handling and responsible waste removal.
The good news is that you can sell your property as is to us for cash with no fees to pay and not have to worry about house clearance costs. We’ll do it for you for you.
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Table of Contents
House Clearance Costs: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to clearing out a property, whether it’s due to a bereavement, downsizing, or simply decluttering, understanding the costs involved is essential.
Let’s go into house clearance costs and uncover what you need to know.
What is a clearance in a home?
A house clearance involves the removal of unwanted items from a home. This is distinct from a removal company as the belongings do not remain with the homeowner. Often a large number of items or the entire contents of a home are taken away.
What does a house clearance involve?
A house clearance involves removing unwanted items from a home, usually in large quantities. Here’s an overview of what it typically includes:
It can entail clearing out the entire house, specific rooms, or just unwanted items like furniture and household waste. The scale can vary from a few bulky items to the complete contents of a property.
Process:
- Preparation: You may need to sort through belongings, and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or dispose of. Some companies might offer assistance with this.
- Hiring a service (optional): Professional house clearance companies can manage the entire process, including sorting, removal, and responsible disposal.
- Clearance day: The team arrives at the scheduled time, removes the designated items, and loads them onto their vehicles.
- Disposal: Depending on the items, they may be donated to charities, sold online, at auction houses, or through antique dealers if valuable, or taken to a waste disposal centre for responsible recycling or disposal.
House clearances are frequently carried out in different scenarios, including:
- Moving house: To prepare the property for sale or handover to a new tenant.
- Bereavement: To clear the belongings of a deceased loved one. It may be a requirement to insure a house that’s going through probate.
- Downsizing or decluttering: To get rid of unwanted items and create more space.
What Influences House Clearance Prices?
Several factors affect the cost of a house clearance:
- Property size
- Volume of items to be cleared
- Type of items (furniture, white goods, general waste)
- Location of the property
- Accessibility (e.g., parking restrictions, stairs)
- Additional services required (cleaning, garden clearance)
Average House Clearance Costs
While prices can vary significantly, here’s a general guide to house clearance costs in the UK:
- Small clearance (up to 500kg): £175 – £300
- Medium clearance (500-750kg): £300 – £450
- Large clearance (750-1000kg): £450 – £600
Keep in mind that these are ballpark figures. For a more accurate quote, it’s best to contact local clearance companies directly.
Cost Breakdown by Property Type
| Property Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom flat | £150 – £300 |
| 2-bedroom house | £250 – £400 |
| 3-bedroom house | £350 – £550 |
| 4-bedroom house | £450 – £700 |
| 5+ bedroom house | £600 – £1000+ |
Hidden Costs
To avoid hidden costs, you must ask your clearance company for a detailed quote that breaks down the charges for different services.
- Disposal fees: Some items, like mattresses or fridges, may incur extra disposal charges due to environmental regulations.
- Specialist item removal: Pianos, safes, or hot tubs often require special equipment and expertise, increasing costs.
- Cleaning services: If you need the property cleaned after clearance, this will be an additional expense.
- Skip hire: For DIY clearances, skip hire can cost between £100 – £400, depending on size and duration.
Reputable companies should have proper licenses from the local council, public liability insurance, and waste carrier licenses, ensuring responsible waste disposal.
Waste Disposal Fees
Some clearance companies charge extra for food wastage, wet food, chemicals, gas canisters, syringes, and computer equipment.
Often, fees for clearing hoarders’ houses can be very expensive, so why not sell the house as is and let us do the work?
Tips to Reduce House Clearance Costs
- Declutter beforehand: The less there is to clear, the lower the cost.
- Donate or sell valuable items: This can offset clearance costs and benefit charities.
- Compare quotes: Get at least three quotes from reputable companies.
- Be flexible with timing: Off-peak times may be cheaper.
- Ensure good access: Clear paths and driveways to speed up the process.
What are the benefits of house clearance?
These are the benefits of a house clearance:
- Enhanced saleability: A cleared and decluttered property is more likely to appeal to potential buyers. They can visualise the space better and imagine their belongings in the house, leading to a quicker sale and potentially higher offers.
- Reduced risk of damage: Emptying a property eliminates the risk of accidental damage to furniture or fixtures during viewings or open houses. This protects your investment and avoids any potential repair costs before the sale.
What do they take in a house clearance?
House clearance companies will take furniture, appliances, bulk items and junk bags in one go. House clearance services are not only expensive but there is also the risk of losing essential documents.
If a property is unregistered, you will need original deeds to be able to sell it. Otherwise, you will only be able to sell a possessory title, making it very difficult to sell. However, you can sell it to a cash buyer such as us.
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How Much Does a House Clearance Cost?
According to Check a Trade website, a house clearance costs between £325 and £595, ranging from small to large clearances.
Before you start paying out, have you considered if any items are worth donating? All charity shops don’t take furniture that doesn’t have a fire-resistant label, but there’s a growing community of upcyclers on Facebook. These groups will take items off you free of charge and give them a new lease of life.
You can also gift items within your local Facebook group. All you need is a camera and a short description of the item. List it in your local Facebook group, and watch enquiries come in! In our experience, good, clean appliances fly out of the door with very grateful recipients.
All house clearance companies quote based on the number of items to be removed. A house visit is necessary to give you a more accurate fixed price. If you have a house where items were hoarded, we can help.
To give you an idea of the cost, we have provided average house clearance prices below:
Clearance Requirements
Average Cost
Very small clearance job up to 250 kg
From £80
Small clearance job up to 500 kg
From £175
Medium clearance job up to 750 kg
From £250
Large clearance job up to 1,000 kg
From £320
Clearing an average-sized three-bedroom home
£500 – £1,000
Long-term hoarding or other more complex jobs
£1,000 – £2,000 or above
Removing and disposing of large furniture items
£30 to £50 per item
Removing TVs and monitors
£15 each
Piano removal
£100 each
Large appliances
£95 each
Small appliances
£50 each
Mattress removal
£20 each
Average UK Clearance Cost
If you need a full house clearance, most companies will charge based on the overall size and weight of the items. According to Check a Trade’s research, here are the average house clearance costs based on size:
Size
Volume (of Luton Van)
Cost (£)
Small
½ van load or 500kg
£325
Medium
¾ van load or 750kg
£400
Large
A full van load or 1,000kg
£595
DIY vs Professional Clearance
While DIY clearance might seem cost-effective, consider these points:
- Time and effort required
- Vehicle hire costs
- Disposal fees at local tips
- Potential for injury when moving heavy items
- Stress of organising everything yourself
Professional clearance services often work out more cost-effective when you factor in all these aspects.
Cost of Removing Electronic Appliances
You can pay the council to remove these items; alternatively, companies like AO allow you to pay and have them collect the items.
If it is a small clearance and you only need appliances to be removed, here are some ballpark figures:
Item
Cost (£)
TV/Monitors
£113
Piano
From £175
Large Fridge or Freezer
£106
Small Fridge or Freezer
£60
Mattress
£24
Sofa
£65
Small Electrical Items (e.g. kettles, toasters, etc)
£7.50
How does house clearance work?
A house clearance is performed by a team of professionals who come to a domestic property, remove unwanted items, and take them away for responsible disposal. Typically, large items such as furniture, white goods, and electricals are removed during a house clearance.
Do house clearance take everything?
Yes, with a house clearance, they take away everything for a fee. It can include clearing an entire home, specific waste items or a room being emptied.
How do house clearance companies make money?
They show up, clear everything out, sell the items with value, and recycle the remaining pieces. The free house clearances make their profit through the sale of the items they gather. It’s a straightforward model.
Here at Property Saviour, you can take all valuables and let us buy the property ‘as is’. We’ll do the house clearance after the purchase.
Do people pay you for house clearance?
If the value of items stored exceeds the clearance cost, the clearance could be provided at no charge and may even result in compensation. However, it is best that you go through all valuables and protect any documents that you find.
House Clearance Access
Most properties are relatively easy to access, but there are several scenarios where access may be restricted and command additional equipment or planning, for example:
- Homes with small entrance ways where larger items are difficult to manoeuvre.
- Properties with steep, narrow or numerous flights of stairs.
- Buildings where bigger appliances must be winched or craned from an upper-storey window.
- House clearances without space or access for a skip or removal vehicle.
- Dilapidated or derelict homes with overgrown gardens or disused pathways that require preparatory work before the house clearance can take place.
If you foresee any potential access difficulties, it is important to share these with your house clearance company beforehand. They may be able to advise on the quickest or cheapest options to clear the property.
What are extra fees or charges?
There are additional fees that house clearance specialists may charge. If these services are not included in the initial quote, it’s important to discuss this before clearance day. The following services may incur an extra cost:
- Disposing of certain electrical items;
- Clearing contents of the garage;
- Garden clearance;
- Skip hire;
Disposing of certain electrical items;
Items such as electrical goods must be disposed of or recycled according to the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive, also known as WEEE. These regulations aim to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Unwanted clutter must be disposed of according to the Environmental Protection Act 1990, ensuring that any rubbish removal is done correctly at recycling centres.
Clearing contents of the garage
Our garages can contain a treasure trove of DIY items, from used paint tins and rusty bikes to bags of concrete that are now impossible to lift. Garage clearances can be extremely time-consuming, and therefore, costs are extra.
Garden clearances
If a garden needs cleaning, certain house clearance companies can ensure that all waste, excess grass, and shrubbery are removed. There will likely be an additional charge for this service. Some house clearance companies have gardening teams equipped with tools to clear garden waste.
Skip hire
You will require at least one, if not more, skips when undertaking a house clearance. There are two types of skips:
- Roll-on roll-off skips (also known as RoRo skips);
- Standard skips
RoRo skips are more cost-effective per yard compared to standard skips. They are suitable for clearances involving large appliances and heavy furniture items. The drawback is their considerable size, which can pose challenges for properties in hard-to-reach areas.
Standard skips, on the other hand, are much smaller and not ideal for extensive clearances. Despite being more expensive per yard, they can be placed in areas that are difficult to access due to their smaller size.
Do you have to leave carpets when you move out?
It is expected that you will leave carpets when you move out. However, if you plan to take carpets with you then you must inform your buyer using TA6 Property Information Form.
Do sellers have to clean the house UK?
Sellers are under no obligation to clean the house, however, the seller is under an obligation to empty the house of all their furniture and belongings. You can always sell the property ‘as is’ to us.
When selling a house do you leave stuff behind?
The seller must empty the house of all their furniture and belongings before the purchase is completed and leave the property as agreed in the contract. If any unwanted items are left behind, the first step is to agree this in writing with the buyer.
Can you get rid of clothes before probate?
No, you can’t get rid of clothes before probate. After someone dies, the Executors named in their Will are in charge of distributing the deceased’s assets.
While Executors can start to gather or remove items from the deceased’s property before getting Probate, they should first consider several potential issues:
- Check if any specific items in the house have been left to specific individuals.
- Consider whether removing any items might cause disputes among family members.
- It’s important to create a comprehensive list of all assets.
- Ideally, have someone with you when clearing the property to have a witness in case something goes missing or is unaccounted for.
- Identify any items of value and have them appraised.
- Ensure there is valid insurance in place for empty property.
Executors bear the personal responsibility to manage the estate correctly and according to the deceased’s wishes.
Can you empty a house before probate?
In legal terms, it’s advised to wait for probate to be granted before clearing out a property. That’s the official stance, but what actually happens can be quite different. It’s important, however, not to start clearing the home before knowing what the will says.
Consider this first example: two siblings, who are also joint executors, stand to inherit their parent’s home, valued at £250,000. The will doesn’t specify what should happen to the personal belongings within.
What usually occurs in such cases is that the siblings decide together on what items they wish to keep, what to give to other family members, and what to sell. This is often sorted out before probate is finalized.
This approach is taken because there’s mutual agreement between the property’s beneficiaries on how to proceed. While not strictly legal advice, it’s a practical solution.
In another case, imagine a will that involves multiple beneficiaries and a property worth more than £400,000, filled with valuable items.
In such complex situations, it’s wise to wait for probate. This allows for the proper valuation of assets, ensures any due inheritance tax is paid, and facilitates the distribution of assets according to the will, minimising legal disputes.
Inheritance tax must be paid on estates valued over £325,000. So, if the estate’s value is near or above this threshold, it’s prudent to wait before moving any items. It’s important to catalogue and value the contents of the home accurately.
As a general rule, avoid removing items from the home unless you’re certain it won’t lead to legal problems or family disagreements. While moving assets isn’t illegal, it could lead to challenges from other potential beneficiaries.
Who pays for house clearance after death?
The Executor pay for house clearance after death. They can use any life insurance or surplus savings to pay for it and recover it from the inherited estate.
When there aren’t sufficient funds remaining, the expenses for clearing a house after someone has passed away would typically be covered by family members. Or you can sell it to Property Saviour for free house clearance.
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How long does it take to clear out a house?
It can take between 1 to 3 days to clear out a house, depending on the size of the home, the number of possessions, and the efficiency of the house clearance team.
For instance, packing and emptying a three-bedroom house with moderate belongings and a professional removal crew may take 2 to 3 days.
However, if you’re dealing with a large, cluttered home and packing items on your own without professional assistance, the process could stretch over several weeks. It’s advisable to begin as early as possible and stay organised to facilitate a smoother, quicker packing process.
How is house clearance cost calculated?
Clearance companies need details about the items and the property to provide an accurate quote. This helps them determine the number of team members needed for the clearance and the vehicle costs.
They can also advise on whether you should hire a skip. Several factors can affect house clearance prices:
Accessibility
Clearance companies assess how easy it is to access a property, which is crucial when dealing with larger clearances.
If a skip is needed, it’s important that the property can be accessed to ensure efficient clearance. Restricted access may require extra measures, adding significant costs to your quote.
Type of Items
The quote can be greatly impacted by the types of items that need clearing. Items that need to be recycled require more paperwork for waste disposal. Larger items will require more movers to handle. Having a thorough inventory on hand will allow the company to offer an accurate quote.
Smaller household items such as kettles and toasters will take up less space and therefore garner a cheaper quote. Some companies may even offer deals when handling clearances that include many smaller items.
Some items need to be handled delicately, such as antiques and pianos. Piano removals require professional equipment and can be a timely procedure. This means that clearance companies are likely to charge a premium due to the labour and time needed.
Location
Companies are more likely to charge higher prices in city locations like London, Cardiff, or Edinburgh. This is because the cost of living in these areas is higher compared to smaller villages and towns.
In regions where the cost of living is lower, such as the North East, the average cost may be lower overall.
Volume of Items
The number of items is one of the major factors when calculating a quote. Larger clearances equate to a higher quote. This is because it will require a bigger clearance team and more vehicle space.
Large clearances that require skip hire will also garner a higher premium charge to cover the cost of the skip and its transportation.
How to hire a house clearance company?
When selecting a house clearance company, it is essential to consider their experience and reputation. Seek out a company with a demonstrated history of delivering dependable and efficient clearance services.
Review online feedback and request references to guarantee you are engaging a company you can rely on.
Before hiring a clearance company, it’s essential to ensure they are the best fit for your needs and requirements. Here are some key factors to consider:
Local Authority License
It is crucial to verify if the company has approval from the local authority to conduct the clearance, especially when dealing with hazardous waste.
They should possess a VAT Registration Number. While membership in the British Chamber of Commerce is not mandatory, it shows professionalism.
Waste Collection Registration Number
You should only hire a company with a Waste Collection Registration Number, also known as a waste license. This means you can be assured that the goods will be disposed of correctly.
Companies that do not have a number should be avoided, as they will not be licensed to carry out the clearance.
Public Liability Insurance
Public Liability Insurance is essential when hiring a clearance company. It ensures you’re covered in case of any mishaps, such as property damage during the moving process.
While having Public Liability insurance may increase costs, it’s essential for your protection and peace of mind.
Quotes Are Neither Too Low Nor High
Always opt for a company that offers a reasonable price. Companies that charge too little pose a significant risk. They might be unreliable house clearance services, contributing to illegal dumping.
It’s crucial to ensure that your chosen clearance company commits to disposing of your household waste responsibly. The most effective way to compare the going rates for house clearance services in your area is by using a comparison website.
Hidden Costs
Ask your clearance company for a quote with a breakdown to prevent any hidden costs from arising further down the line. They will provide an accurate cost based on the moved goods and how much extra services may be added.
Make sure they can take your items before paying
Having an accurate inventory on hand when speaking with the clearance company can confirm if they can dispose of the goods for you.
Some clearance companies specialise in larger items only, while others may only accept smaller items. Therefore, always ensure they can clear all items before making payments.
Do you pay for house clearance or do they pay you?
If you want to be paid for house clearance, then it is best to get a valuation. You can auction the valuables or sell them on eBay.
House clearance companies will never pay you. At best they will take away your valuables for free.
Do councils do house clearances?
Most councils do not offer a house clearance service. They do offer a bulk waste collection service, which may work out a little cheaper than a private house clearance company.
How long does a house clearance typically take?
A standard 3-bedroom house usually takes 4-8 hours, depending on the volume of items and accessibility.
Can I stay in the property during the clearance?
While possible, it’s often easier and safer to be off-site during the clearance process.
What happens to the items cleared from my house?
Reputable companies will sort items for recycling, donation, or responsible disposal. Some may offer to buy valuable items, potentially offsetting your costs.
Do I need to be present for the clearance?
It’s not always necessary, but being available at the start and end of the process can be helpful.
Where can you find a bereavement house clearance service?
We provide a free bereavement house clearance service. We are non-judgemental and would be delighted to offer you a cash offer and a free house clearance.
We buy any property across England, Scotland & Wales, so feel free to get in touch to see how we can help:
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