Frequently asked questions
How do I start a service with Falkirk Council?
Please complete out enquiry form and we can supply more information.
How long does it take to start a service with Falkirk Council?
We can start the service extremely quickly once the collection agreement documentation has been completed. If you don't require the service straight away let us know and we can arrange a convenient starting date.
How do I pay?
We issue invoices that run from the point of bin delivery until the end of the financial year unless otherwise agreed. The easiest way to pay is online.
What do you charge?
The cost of the service is determined by the bin size, number of bins and how often the bins are collected. For a full price list please contact us.
Do I need to have a recycling service?
Yes, this is a requirement under the Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012.
What do I do if I have no space for bins?
We can offer a loose collection. You pay for branded sacks, which are presented on your designated collection day. The price of the sacks include collection and disposal. We also offer labels for bundled cardboard waste. We do not collect waste not in bins, sacks, or appropriately labelled. Please contact us for prices and more details.
Can I take waste home with me?
No, Waste produced by businesses is classified as commercial waste, which is controlled waste. Controlled waste should only be transported by those authorised by SEPA to do so. If you are unable to produce a waste transfer note upon request you may be referred to SEPA for enforcement action.
I have received my invoice but there is no VAT, why?
The service is exempt from VAT.
I don’t have to pay for bins at home, why do I have to pay for business waste?
UK councils do not receive funding to dispose of commercial waste. As such this is a chargeable service.
I am a church / charity / place of worship; am I entitled to free collections?
Registered charities will receive a discount equivalent to a regular household collection. You will still receive the discount if you opt for an increased service, but you simply pay the difference between the discount and service cost.
I have just moved in to a building and there are no bins for my business waste, what do I do?
The previous business waste contract will have ended and the bins removed. We can provide a paid for waste uplift service, or you can source a collection from a 3rd party. If using a 3rd party ensure they are authorised to take waste with SEPA and that they provide waste transfer notes. Otherwise you may be fined. You may be held liable for fly tipping if they go on to dump your waste illegally.
How often can you collect my waste?
Generally we can collect recycling fortnightly and general waste up to twice a week. If you require more frequent collections please contact us to discuss. Weekly collection service with individual requirements tailored to your needs.
Are you more expensive than private contractors?
No, we believe our prices are competitive and represent good value for money for businesses. We employ local staff who know the area well and have a dedicated Falkirk based helpline. When comparing providers a top tip is to compare how much providers charge for: duty of care documentation; container rental; and delivery charges. We do not charge extra for these.
Will you price match another quote?
Prices are set by elected member for the start of each financial year. We are unable to price match, but with us we guarantee there will be no mid-year price increases.
Do you charge for overweight bins?
Yes, our charges are set to cover our service costs. If weight is excessive the business is required to pay for the extra weight.
The industry standard weights thresholds are:
- 240L - 20kg
- 360L - 30kg
- 660L - 40kg
- 1100L - 70kg
If we detect overweights for a site we will contact the site to make them aware. We will work with you to review your service need to see if changes can be made to avoid the overweights from occurring. If this is not possible we will raise invoices on a monthly basis to cover any overweights occurred.
When are my bins collected?
Please complete our enquiry form and we will send a bespoke calendar.
All the house bins on my street were collected but my business bins were left, why did the crew not collect them?
Business waste is classified as controlled waste and must be collected separately from household waste. We have dedicated trade waste crews that operate on a different frequency from the domestic crews. If you are unsure of your collection days please contact us.
What happens if I don’t pay my invoice?
You have 14 days from the service start to log any issues. If no payment is received the service will be suspended and Council debt recovery policy would apply.
Are you able to recycle electricals?
We cannot offer an uplift of electricals, these materials also cannot be disposed of under the small traders tipping permit scheme.