Your dumpster questions

Most single-room jobs fit in a 10 or 15 yard container, and a full basement or a whole-house clear-out usually calls for a 20. The 30 and 40 yard sizes suit new builds and tear-downs. Send us a photo, and we can help you judge.

Sometimes. Many DC alleys are narrow, with tight turns and low wires, so a compact container is the usual answer. Measure the alley if you can, and tell us about anything overhead. If it has to go on the street, a DDOT public space permit is needed first.

Often, yes. Prince George's County and many incorporated towns ask for a permit before a container goes on a public street. On your own driveway you normally do not need one. Check with your town first, and let us know what it says.

Ask whether a container is allowed at all, how long it can stay, and if it must be on the driveway. Some communities in Bowie, Crofton and Columbia want notice before it arrives. Get an answer in writing if you can, and share any limits with us.

No. Maryland keeps yard waste out of landfills, so branches, leaves and grass need to be loaded on their own. Storm cleanups often produce both kinds of debris, so tell us what you have, and we can plan separate loads.

Paint, solvents, fuel, oil, tires, batteries, propane tanks and appliances holding refrigerant all need separate handling. Asbestos and other hazardous materials never go in a standard load. If you are unsure about an item, ask us before you throw it in.

It is best to keep them apart. Heavy material belongs in a smaller container filled only part of the way, so the truck stays within its weight limit. A big box full of concrete may be impossible to lift off your driveway.

As soon as the water is gone and it is safe to go in. Wet carpet, pad and drywall can start growing mold within days, so move quickly. Take photos first for your own records. We can bring a container, send a crew, or do both.

Yes. Crews work room by room for families settling an estate, landlords after a move-out and banks with a foreclosure. Anything that must be kept gets set aside first. For hoarding situations, we go at a pace the family can manage, and we stay discreet.

Yes. Job sites and events can have standard and accessible portable toilets, delivered with a container or on their own, and serviced on a regular schedule for longer jobs. Tell us your crew size or guest count, and we will suggest how many you need.